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UK Labour Government Restores Funding to UNRWA Amid Gaza Conflict

Jul 19, 2024, 12:59 PM

The UK government, under the new Labour administration led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has decided to restore funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), reversing the previous suspension. Foreign Secretary David Lammy announced the decision, emphasizing that UNRWA is crucial for delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza. This move comes amid ongoing conflict in the region, with calls for an immediate ceasefire and a full diplomatic peace process. The Labour government also aims to work towards a viable Palestinian state and uphold international humanitarian law. The decision has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising it as a necessary step for humanitarian aid, while others criticize it, alleging links between UNRWA and Hamas. The United States remains the only major donor yet to resume funding. The situation in Gaza is dire, with a 94% reduction in water supply and insufficient aid reaching the population.