Daniele Piccini – Vatican
Hindering the delivery of humanitarian aid to Palestinian refugees in the Middle East constitutes a „serious violation of international humanitarian law” and „deepens the suffering of people already living in extremely difficult conditions” – emphasized the Permanent Observer Mission of the Holy See to the UN in New York in a statement. The statement was read on June 30 during a meeting of the relevant committee of the General Assembly.
Over 70 years of indispensable support for Palestinians
In its statement, the Vatican delegation drew attention to the importance of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), emphasizing that its activities constitute „essential support for millions of Palestinian refugees”.
As recalled, for over seventy years, the Agency has provided refugees with education, healthcare, food aid, and social services, guaranteeing them protection, support, and the opportunity to live in dignified conditions.
UNRWA was established in 1949 by the UN General Assembly under Resolution No. 302 (IV), after the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, to provide assistance to Palestinians who became refugees.
Representatives of the Holy See to the UN also expressed „deep concern” over the „killing of UNRWA staff”, as well as „attacks on the Agency’s facilities in the territories of the State of Palestine, including schools and other places where civilians sought refuge”.
Financial commitment of the Holy See
Recognizing UNRWA’s crucial role, the Holy See reaffirmed „its financial commitment to the Agency as a concrete expression of solidarity with Palestinian refugees and trust in its humanitarian mission”.
Hope was expressed that UNRWA’s activities would be conducted with unwavering respect for the principles of humanitarianism, neutrality, impartiality, and independence, so as to maintain the Agency’s credibility and enable it to continue fulfilling its entrusted mission as a trustworthy instrument of solidarity and peace.
