Ireland has announced a significant €20 million contribution to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) to support its operations in Gaza, the West Bank, and Palestine refugee communities across the Middle East. The announcement was made by Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Harris, who emphasized the urgent need for humanitarian aid in Gaza, where the situation remains dire.
“The ceasefire and hostage release deal offers a moment of hope for Palestinians and Israelis,” Harris stated, adding that Ireland’s financial support would help UNRWA continue its critical work in providing food, healthcare, and education services.
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This latest funding is in addition to €38 million Ireland has provided to UNRWA since 2023, bringing the total contribution to over €63 million. Minister of State for International Development Neale Richmond reiterated that UNRWA plays a vital role in supporting 5.9 million Palestinian refugees across the region and stabilizing communities affected by conflict.
Role of UNRWA in Gaza
UNRWA is one of the few agencies with the capacity to operate at scale in Gaza, where it has been responsible for delivering over 60% of humanitarian supplies entering the region since the start of the ceasefire. The agency provides critical services, including food distribution, healthcare, and education for more than 300,000 children in Gaza.
Despite its indispensable role, UNRWA has faced increasing restrictions and challenges, particularly following recent Israeli legislative measures aimed at limiting its operations. The Irish government has expressed strong concern over these developments, with Harris urging Israel to reconsider its stance.
Israeli Legislation
On January 30, Israeli legislation banning UNRWA from operating within the country came into force, further complicating the agency’s ability to provide aid. The law also prohibits contact between Israeli authorities and UNRWA. Israel has accused the agency of ties to Hamas, allegations that UNRWA has consistently denied.
The United Nations has maintained that it will continue its work in all Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem, despite the Israeli ban. Harris voiced his concern over these restrictions, warning that they could have severe consequences for millions of Palestinian refugees who rely on UNRWA’s support. “I urge Israel to reconsider these measures and encourage other governments to support UNRWA with funding at this most critical time,” he said.
Global Context and International Responses
Ireland’s latest aid pledge comes as part of a broader international effort to support Gaza amid one of the most severe humanitarian crises in recent history. The conflict has resulted in over 47,000 deaths and more than 111,000 injuries, the majority of whom are women and children.
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The announcement also follows a series of geopolitical shifts affecting UNRWA. In October, the Israeli parliament passed laws calling for the agency’s removal from Israel and occupied Palestinian territories. Meanwhile, the United States, under former President Donald Trump, withdrew from the UN Human Rights Council and extended a funding ban on UNRWA.