Canada to Restore Funding to UN Relief Agency for Palestinians
After weeks of uncertainty, Canada has decided to resume its funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA). The agency lost significant financial support from 16 countries, including Canada, following Israeli allegations against some of its staffers in Gaza. The allegations involved accusations that UNRWA employees were involved in Hamas attacks on Israel.
Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, stated that Canada has been reassured after receiving an interim report from the United Nations investigation into Israel’s allegations. The decision to restore funding aims to address the urgent needs of Palestinian civilians, particularly in Gaza, where the majority of the population has been displaced due to the ongoing conflict.
The Canadian government was set to announce the decision earlier but delayed it until Friday. The decision comes at a crucial time as UNRWA, which is a vital supplier of food, water, and shelter in Gaza, is on the brink of financial collapse.
In response to the resumption of funding, UNRWA has accused Israel of detaining and torturing its staffers to obtain false confessions about alleged links to Hamas. Despite the challenges, Canada remains committed to supporting humanitarian efforts in the region and will also provide additional assistance to the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization for aid delivery to Gaza.
The decision to restore funding reflects Canada’s commitment to promoting accountability and supporting the ongoing humanitarian efforts in the region. The move comes amidst escalating tensions and a pressing need for international support for Palestinian refugees.
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