UNRWA’s Medal of Recognition: The Critical Role in Assisting Palestine Refugees Amid Challenges

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) was awarded a medal by Jordanian King Abdullah II in recognition of its humanitarian aid efforts towards Palestinian refugees. During the ceremony held at the Gaza Emergency Humanitarian Response Conference in Sowayma, the King presented the First Class Independence Medal to UNRWA’s Commissioner-General, Philippe Lazzarini.

The King emphasized on supporting UNRWA to carry out its humanitarian work effectively and cautioned against obstructing its efforts in Gaza, which would affect nearly two million Palestinian refugees. Meanwhile, UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged the international community to stand together to protect UNRWA from attacks and acknowledged its critical role not only during conflict but also post-conflict.

In January, Israel accused some UNRWA workers of involvement in an attack by Hamas on Israel, leading to suspension of support from several countries, including the United States. This had a significant impact on UNRWA’s ability to provide aid to Palestinian refugees in the Strip. However, some countries later resumed their funding to support UNRWA’s mission of providing assistance to refugees.