Gaza, May 7, 2025. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) is facing a critical funding shortfall, severely impacting its ability to deliver essential humanitarian aid in Gaza. This crisis unfolds amidst ongoing allegations against some UNRWA staff and subsequent funding suspensions by key donor countries.
Several nations have halted funding to UNRWA following accusations that some of its employees were involved in the October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas. This suspension jeopardizes the agency's capacity to provide vital assistance to Palestinian refugees, including food, fuel, medical aid, and vaccines, which have been rapidly depleting since a siege imposed by Israeli authorities on March 2, 2025.
The situation has triggered international alarm, with growing concerns about the devastating consequences for humanitarian efforts and regional stability. Investigations are underway to address the allegations and determine the future of aid delivery. The need for $1.7 billion to address the most critical humanitarian needs of 1.9 million people in Gaza and 275,000 in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem is becoming more dire.