Gamal Roshdy, the spokesperson for the Secretary-General of the
League of Arab States, emphasised the crucial humanitarian role that
UNRWA is currently playing amidst the aggressive Israeli campaign
targeting Gaza's civilian population. He underscored that UNRWA staff is
undertaking a courageous and noble mission driven solely by
humanitarian purposes. Supporting this agency, according to Roshdy,
serves as a vital lifeline for hundreds of thousands of Palestinians who
rely on the aid and services it provides.
In light of these circumstances, the spokesperson expressed
surprise and condemnation for the Swiss Parliament's decision to
withhold approximately $21 million in aid to the UN agency. This
decision is particularly perplexing given Switzerland's leading role in
international humanitarian law and its status as one of the major
contributors to UNRWA's budget.
Roshdy highlighted the humanitarian tragedy unfolding in Gaza,
emphasising the need to augment UNRWA's budget and provide financial
support rather than deducting from it. He appealed to all countries to
commit to supporting the UN agency, stressing that its work signifies
the difference between life and death for the majority of Palestinians
in Gaza. Additionally, he expressed hope that Switzerland would
reconsider and retract its decision.
