Brussels: European Commissioner for Equality Hadja Lahbib on Sunday called on the international community to maintain its support for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in light of the ongoing humanitarian crisis affecting the Gaza Strip. Lahbib emphasized the critical role of UNRWA in providing aid to Palestinians in the region during these challenging times.

According to Anadolu Agency, Lahbib conveyed her concerns and the necessity for sustained assistance to UNRWA through a social media post. She mentioned that she had discussed the issue with Olaf Becker, UNRWA's director in Jordan, stressing the organization's indispensable role in the region. The appeal from the European Commissioner follows the Israeli Knesset's decision last October to prohibit UNRWA's operations in Israeli-controlled areas, a move justified by alleged links between some UNRWA staff and Hamas' cross-border attack on October 7, 2023, claims which UNRWA has vehemently denied.

In addition to advocating for UNRWA, Lahbib highlighted the need for the recently initiated ceasefire between Israel and Hamas to be upheld. She underscored the importance of this truce to facilitate the distribution of essential humanitarian aid to those in dire need. Lahbib's statement pointed to the urgency of the situation, noting the tragic loss of life and the imperative to prevent further casualties.

Since the onset of hostilities on October 7, a significant number of casualties have occurred, with reports indicating nearly 47,000 deaths, predominantly women and children, and over 110,700 injuries as a result of the conflict in Gaza. Lahbib's call to action aims to address this humanitarian catastrophe by ensuring that aid and support continue to reach the affected populations.