Qatar announced an additional $100 million in humanitarian aid during the UNRWA ministerial meeting at the 79th United Nations General Assembly. Minister Lolwah bint Rashid Al Khater highlighted the critical need for international support for UNRWA amidst ongoing humanitarian challenges in Gaza. She condemned efforts to label UNRWA as a terrorist organization, asserting Qatar’s dedication to assisting Palestinian refugees.
During the recent Ministerial Meeting for Key Partners in Support of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), held on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York, the State of Qatar unveiled an additional pledge of $100 million in humanitarian aid specifically allocated for the Gaza Strip. Minister of State for International Cooperation, Her Excellency Lolwah bint Rashid Al Khater, represented Qatar and emphasized the urgent need for international solidarity to assist UNRWA in fulfilling its critical humanitarian role amidst ongoing challenges and systematic measures imposed by the Israeli government. Her Excellency expressed Qatar’s pride in being among the first nations to endorse the Statement of Shared Commitments on UNRWA, underscoring the agency’s vital contributions to providing life-saving support to Palestinian refugees. She condemned any efforts to label UNRWA as a terrorist organization, labeling such moves as perilous and deeply troubling. Qatar’s commitment to supporting UNRWA is longstanding; it was the inaugural Arab nation to enter into a multi-year agreement with the agency back in 2018. Continuing its humanitarian mission, Qatar intends to coordinate with UNRWA to alleviate the hardships faced by the Palestinian populace through various forms of humanitarian assistance. Her Excellency also noted that the current meeting’s significance is amplified due to the continuing Israeli military actions not only in Gaza but also in the West Bank and neighboring Lebanon, which have contributed to a significant humanitarian crisis and further regional instability.
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) plays an essential role in providing humanitarian assistance to Palestinian refugees, especially amidst ongoing conflicts in the region. The agency’s funding and support are critical to mitigating the humanitarian crises induced by military operations and hostilities. Qatar has positioned itself as one of the key partners in funding UNRWA, advocating for solid international support to empower the agency to carry out its mandate effectively. The recent increase in aid is part of Qatar’s ongoing efforts to address the urgent needs of Palestinian refugees and support stability in a region fraught with violence and distress.
The State of Qatar’s recent pledge of $100 million in humanitarian aid reaffirms its commitment to supporting Palestinian refugees and bolstering UNRWA’s vital work during a time of significant adversity. Minister Lolwah bint Rashid Al Khater’s remarks highlight the necessity for a unified international approach to assist those affected by conflict in Gaza and neighboring areas, while also reiterating the importance of protecting UNRWA from harmful misinformation and designations that could hinder its humanitarian mission.
Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com