New york: The State of Qatar has emphasized the indispensable role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) in addressing the humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people. This assertion was made in the New York Declaration during the High-Level International Conference on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution.
According to Qatar News Agency, the statement was delivered by Sheikh Jassim bin Abdulaziz Al-Thani, Second Secretary of the Permanent Mission of the State of Qatar to the United Nations, before the Fourth Committee of the UN General Assembly at its 80th session. The discussion focused on agenda item 49 concerning UNRWA at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
Sheikh Jassim highlighted that UNRWA, established in 1949, continues to offer essential services and humanitarian assistance to over five million Palestinian refugees across Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. He noted that the agency's responsibilities have grown significantly due to the worsening humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip.
He acknowledged Qatar's collaborative efforts with Egypt, Turkiye, and the United States, which led to a ceasefire agreement on October 13th in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He underscored UNRWA's crucial role in sustaining operations and services during and post-conflict in the region.
Sheikh Jassim stressed the importance of implementing the advisory opinions of the International Court of Justice concerning UNRWA and Israel's obligations as an occupying power. Amidst the rising challenges faced by UNRWA, Qatar calls for the renewal of the Agency's mandate per General Assembly Resolution 302 and subsequent resolutions.
He urged member states to provide unconditional support to ensure the Agency's continued operation, warning that any obstruction could lead to severe humanitarian, political, and security repercussions, affecting millions of Palestinians in the region.
Reiterating Qatar's unwavering support for UNRWA, Sheikh Jassim highlighted Qatar as the first Arab nation to sign a multi-year agreement with the Agency in 2018, with contributions surpassing US$49 million in 2024. Qatar remains committed to providing political, diplomatic, and financial support.
He called upon the General Assembly to fulfill its responsibilities to ensure UNRWA's continued operation, emphasizing that the agency's existence hinges on ending the occupation and achieving Palestinian self-determination.
Sheikh Jassim reaffirmed Qatar's steadfast support for the Palestinian cause, advocating for their rights based on international law and United Nations resolutions, particularly their right to self-determination, return, and the establishment of an independent state with East Jerusalem as its capital.