Foreign ministers from eight Muslim-majority countries have issued a strong joint statement backing UNRWA, warning that any weakening of the agency would deepen the humanitarian crisis facing Palestinian refugees.
The statement comes amid escalating tensions in East Jerusalem and worsening conditions in Gaza.
The foreign ministers of Pakistan, Egypt, Indonesia, Jordan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and the United Arab Emirates reaffirmed the indispensable role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).
They stressed that for decades UNRWA has fulfilled a unique mandate entrusted by the international community, safeguarding the rights and well-being of Palestinian refugees across its areas of operation.
Decades of services rooted in UN resolutions
UNRWA continues to provide protection, education, health care, social services, and emergency assistance to millions of Palestinian refugees.
The ministers underscored that this work is carried out in line with UN General Assembly Resolution 302 (1949), which established the agency’s mandate and responsibilities.
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The adoption of a UN General Assembly resolution renewing UNRWA’s mandate for an additional three years was highlighted as a clear signal of international confidence.
According to the ministers, the renewal reflects broad global recognition of the agency’s vital role and the need to ensure continuity of its operations.
Storming of UNRWA headquarters
The ministers strongly condemned the storming of UNRWA’s headquarters in the Sheikh Jarrah neighbourhood of East Jerusalem by Israeli forces.
They described the incident as a flagrant violation of international law and the inviolability of United Nations premises, calling it an unacceptable escalation.
The statement pointed to the advisory opinion issued by the International Court of Justice on October 22. That opinion clearly states that Israel, as an occupying power, is obligated not to impede UNRWA’s operations and, instead, to facilitate the agency’s work.
UNRWA’s central role amid Gaza’s humanitarian crisis
Against the backdrop of an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, the ministers emphasized UNRWA’s essential role in delivering aid.
Through its extensive network of distribution centers, UNRWA ensures that food, relief items, and basic necessities reach those in need fairly and efficiently.
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The ministers noted that UNRWA’s humanitarian operations in Gaza are conducted in accordance with Security Council Resolution 2803.
They stressed that the agency’s presence helps maintain order and equity in aid distribution during extreme and volatile conditions.
Schools and health facilities remain lifelines
UNRWA’s schools and health facilities were described as a lifeline for refugee communities in Gaza. Despite immense challenges, these institutions continue to provide education and essential primary health care to vulnerable populations.
The ministers stated that UNRWA’s continued operations contribute to the implementation of President Trump’s Plan on the ground.
They said this support enables the Palestinian people to remain on their land and take steps toward rebuilding their homeland.
Irreplaceable institution
The foreign ministers stressed that UNRWA’s role cannot be replaced by any other entity. They emphasized that no organization matches UNRWA’s infrastructure, expertise, and field presence necessary to meet refugee needs at the required scale.
Any weakening of UNRWA’s capacity, the ministers warned, would lead to grave humanitarian, social, and political repercussions across the region.
They cautioned that reduced services would directly undermine stability and exacerbate regional tensions.
Call for funding and political space
The ministers called on the international community to ensure sustainable and adequate funding for UNRWA. They also urged states to provide the agency with the political and operational space required to continue its work in all five fields of operations.
Supporting UNRWA, the ministers concluded, is a cornerstone of maintaining regional stability and preserving human dignity.
They reaffirmed that the rights of Palestinian refugees must be upheld until a just and lasting solution is achieved in accordance with international law and relevant UN resolutions, including UN General Assembly Resolution 194.
