Philippe Lazzarini warns UNRWA’s viability is at risk amid Gaza crisis, as Israel targets aid facilities and staff face violence.
Israeli forces stormed and demolished UNRWA premises in East Jerusalem, citing a 2024 law banning the agency. The move follows ongoing tensions, accusations of links to Hamas, and international condemnation. UNRWA warns these actions threaten humanitarian aid and Palestinian refugees' rights amid the Gaza conflict.
As of early 2026, Israel has intensified restrictions on humanitarian organizations operating in Gaza and the occupied West Bank, demanding detailed staff data and revoking licenses of 37 NGOs, including Doctors Without Borders (MSF). MSF controversially shared staff names with Israel to avoid expulsion, sparking criticism over risks to Palestinian workers amid ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis.
UNRWA warns it may soon become non-viable due to funding shortages and Israeli actions, including raids and accusations of collusion with Hamas. The agency provides aid to millions of Palestinian refugees, but faces accusations of perpetuating conflict and terrorism, with the US freezing funding in 2024.
UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini announced the formation of a high-level panel to investigate the killing of over 390 staff members since October 2023 during the Gaza conflict. The investigation aims to address accountability amid ongoing Israeli airstrikes and funding cuts, with concerns about the agency's future and staff safety.