Ireland has announced a significant €20 million funding package for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), reinforcing its support for humanitarian efforts in Gaza. The announcement by Tánaiste Simon Harris comes at a crucial time, as UNRWA faces operational challenges following an Israeli ban that took effect on January 30.
This latest contribution brings Ireland’s total support for Palestinian aid since early 2023 to over €63 million, with more than €51 million provided since October 2023. The funding aims to bolster UNRWA’s critical humanitarian work in Gaza, where the ongoing conflict has resulted in at least 47,540 deaths and over 111,000 injuries, predominantly among women and children.
UNRWA has played a vital role in the humanitarian response, delivering more than 60% of supplies entering Gaza during the initial days of the ceasefire. However, the organization now faces significant operational constraints following Israel’s recent legislation, which has forced the closure of its East Jerusalem offices and suspended its operations within Israel.
Tánaiste Harris expressed “grave concern” about the Israeli ban on UNRWA and urged Israel to reconsider these measures. He emphasized that UNRWA’s work is irreplaceable and called on other governments to step up their support for the agency during this critical period.
Minister of State Neale Richmond highlighted UNRWA’s crucial role as “the backbone of the humanitarian response in Gaza,” noting that the agency has provided food and essential services to approximately one million people since the ceasefire began.
According to The Journal, the funding announcement comes as international attention focuses on both the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the broader implications of restrictions on aid organizations operating in the region. Harris noted that the recent ceasefire and hostage release deal represents “a moment of hope for Palestinians and Israelis,” while emphasizing the urgent need for increased humanitarian assistance.