Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza and the UNRWA Situation
In the heart of the Gaza Strip’s shrinking landscape, the situation has grown even more precarious. Recently, the Netanyahu administration named 12 UNRWA staff in connection with the October 7 attacks. This accusation triggered concerns as major donors paused funding at a moment when relief is most needed for Gazans.
Raquel Martí serves as UNRWA’s director general in Spain. The agency faces a critical moment after Israel linked numerous employees to Hamas and the October 7 events. With funding threatened by principal donors, the continuity of UNRWA’s operations hangs by a thread.
UNRWA is a special United Nations entity. Why is it important?
UNRWA stands as the sole UN agency authorized to assist the Palestinian refugee population. Without its presence, hundreds of thousands of children could be left without schooling. More than six million people would lack access to healthcare, and upwards of 300,000 could lose social services.
What alternatives could emerge for Palestinians if UNRWA’s work is hindered?
Communities served by UNRWA would be left without a safety net. The need to remind the international community of an unresolved 75-year-old issue would intensify. As an agency, UNRWA seeks to continue its mission, and it cannot abandon Gaza while the humanitarian crisis persists.
“Withdrawing funding is inconsistent and would condemn the population to death”
How would one describe the current situation in Gaza?
The bombing intensifies daily. Khan Yunis remains a center of concern due to high displacement, yet civilians are being pushed south toward Rafah where shelter capacity is overwhelmed. Many are living in tarpaulin and plastic shelters as tents are blocked from entry.
How was the alleged involvement of 12 UNRWA staff in the October 7 attacks learned?
The agency learned of the allegations when Israel publicly accused 12 workers of taking part in Hamas attacks. Their identities were verified, contracts terminated, and an internal investigation was launched. The organization operates in a high-risk environment, but staff actions outside of work remain the agency’s separate concern.
Since January 26, some regions including the Valencian Community have paused UNRWA funding…
That decision is deeply regretted. Until proof is established, an entire institution faces blame. If investigators prove misdeeds, appropriate justice will follow. Meanwhile, the priority remains delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza, guided by the presumption of innocence and the urgent needs of people in crisis.
“We must allow investigations to proceed while upholding the presumption of innocence.”
What is the scale of the financial impact?
Current estimates place the potential loss at over €800 million. The withdrawal of funds could jeopardize aid for those in war-affected regions. Projections show funds may run dry by the end of February if donors do not resume support.
Have donors signaled any return after UNRWA’s appeals?
No donors have stepped back publicly yet. Many are awaiting new information, but time is running short and decisions loom large.
For background, Ignacio Álvarez-Ossorio is a professor of Arabic and Islamic Studies at the Complutense University of Madrid. He also directs academic publications and participates in regional research groups focusing on the Maghreb and Middle East, while remaining vocal on UNRWA matters.
With the blockade, are there enough humanitarian supplies?
Israel has restricted aid entry since October 7. Defense Minister Gallant indicated that water, food, and medicine would not be allowed into Gaza until Hamas releases Israeli hostages. Four months in, only a fraction of aid gets through, despite international pressure. Food insecurity is being used as a weapon of war, a misuse condemned by international law.
Is there a safe place within the Gaza Strip?
Safety is scarce. Over time, the Israeli campaign has expanded across the region. Displaced children and families have faced dire conditions, with casualty figures rising to levels unseen in recent memory.
“Hunger is used as a weapon of war, a prohibition under international law.”
How has the international community viewed humanitarian corridors versus a ceasefire?
Israel has cited self-defense to justify the devastation in Gaza since October 7. Yet the right to self-defense does not excuse war crimes or crimes against humanity. Many allies did not demand a ceasefire, interpreting the mandate as permission to press ahead with military actions that have left Gaza in ashes.
The temporary funding withdrawal to UNRWA is described as a tragedy…
This stance sends a dangerous message. Israel’s accusations against UNRWA staff require conclusive evidence. The UN system as a whole faces scrutiny for its stance and accountability, but UNRWA remains focused on aiding those in need while investigations proceed.
“The October 7 massacre is used to justify actions affecting millions.”
How would one rate the European Union’s position, including Borrell’s stance?
The EU has shown mixed signals. The Commission President has acknowledged actions directed at self-defense, while other leaders have urged ceasefire and a path toward a Palestinian state. The stance illustrates a nuanced, divided foreign policy landscape.
What does the International Court of Justice’s ruling signify?
The ruling marks a pivotal moment. It clarifies that support for Israel’s broader campaign does not erase the reality on the ground, placing countries in a difficult historical choice about their positions on Gaza and accountability for humanitarian law violations.