UNRWA Head Denied Entry to Gaza by Israel
Philippe Lazzarini, head of the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), was barred by Israel from entering Gaza, a region facing severe humanitarian issues, including a potential famine warned by the UN.
Speaking alongside Egypt's Foreign Minister at a press event in Cairo, Lazzarini expressed his unsuccessful attempt to visit Rafah. His denied access, which he announced on a social media platform, has yet to receive an Israeli response.
The UNRWA, central to Gaza's aid, is under scrutiny after Israel alleged its staff's involvement in a Hamas attack. Consequently, key donors initially withheld funding, although some, like Spain, Canada, and Australia, have resumed or increased support.
Cairo officials back UNRWA against what they consider unwarranted funding restrictions due to unfounded claims. Meanwhile, Israel maintains its stance, accusing UNRWA of siding with Hamas.
The conflict has had a devastating toll, with substantial civilian casualties and extensive damage to UNRWA facilities. Accusations of mistreatment of UNRWA staff by Israeli forces have surfaced.
With over 31,000 lives lost in Gaza due to Israeli strikes and malnutrition-related deaths increasing, the humanitarian crisis intensifies. Despite efforts, including airdrops and a proposed sea corridor, aid agencies urge that more is needed to address Gaza's dire needs, where half of the population faces extreme hunger.
The UNRWA, central to Gaza's aid, is under scrutiny after Israel alleged its staff's involvement in a Hamas attack. Consequently, key donors initially withheld funding, although some, like Spain, Canada, and Australia, have resumed or increased support.
Cairo officials back UNRWA against what they consider unwarranted funding restrictions due to unfounded claims. Meanwhile, Israel maintains its stance, accusing UNRWA of siding with Hamas.
The conflict has had a devastating toll, with substantial civilian casualties and extensive damage to UNRWA facilities. Accusations of mistreatment of UNRWA staff by Israeli forces have surfaced.
With over 31,000 lives lost in Gaza due to Israeli strikes and malnutrition-related deaths increasing, the humanitarian crisis intensifies. Despite efforts, including airdrops and a proposed sea corridor, aid agencies urge that more is needed to address Gaza's dire needs, where half of the population faces extreme hunger.
Translation:
Translated by AI
