CAIRO — Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Badr Abdel Atti, emphasized the comprehensive role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) on Monday, stating that the agency’s responsibilities extend beyond the Gaza Strip to all Palestinian refugees. He underscored that UNRWA’s mission will continue until Palestinian refugees secure their rights.
In a joint press conference with UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini, Abdel Atti condemned the use of famine as a weapon in Gaza, highlighting its detrimental impact on the credibility of the international community. He called for a reevaluation of funding for UNRWA by the international community and donor parties, noting that Egypt has contributed over 70% of the aid entering Gaza.
“Egypt remains committed to fully supporting the Palestinians in Gaza,” Abdel Atti said, stressing the irreplaceable role of UNRWA, which operates the only aid distribution centers in the region. He also noted that Egyptian hospitals are treating numerous injured Palestinians from Gaza.
Lazzarini confirmed that UNRWA institutions in Gaza have been targeted by Israeli military operations since the onset of the conflict, stating that the situation in Gaza is dire and urgent action is needed to cease hostilities. He revealed that 2,000 UN employees have been killed in the conflict so far.
“An entire generation may be deprived of education in Gaza due to the destruction of most schools,” Lazzarini warned. He also highlighted the displacement of 250,000 Palestinians from Khan Yunis this week, stressing the absence of safe havens in Gaza.
Lazzarini pointed to an ongoing campaign aimed at dismantling UNRWA and undermining its operations in Gaza, urging international support to counter these efforts.
The meeting between Abdel Atti and Lazzarini on Monday focused on strengthening UNRWA’s operations and addressing the humanitarian challenges in Gaza. Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, shared details of their discussion on social media, emphasizing the urgent need for coordinated humanitarian relief efforts.
As the crisis in Gaza deepens, Egypt continues to play a pivotal role in providing aid and advocating for international support for Palestinian refugees, reinforcing the critical importance of UNRWA’s work in the region.
