Amman: Jordan’s unwavering support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) was affirmed by Rafiq Khirfan, Director-General of the Department of Palestinian Affairs and Vice-Chair of UNRWA’s Advisory Commission. Khirfan emphasized Jordan’s comprehensive political, humanitarian, and diplomatic efforts to maintain UNRWA’s operations as the key organization defending Palestinian refugees’ rights.
According to Jordan News Agency, Khirfan spoke at the UNRWA Advisory Commission meetings, attended by UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini and representatives from host and donor countries. He highlighted Jordan’s collaboration with UNRWA in delivering aid to Gaza through air and land convoys since the onset of Israeli aggression. Jordan has also welcomed numerous sick and injured individuals, especially children, and dispatched medical teams along with a fully equipped field hospital.
Khirfan pointed out His Majesty King Abdullah II’s diplomatic efforts to gather international support and oppose any political constraints on the agency’s funding, reinforcing Jordan’s steadfast commitment to UNRWA. He stressed that these initiatives reflect Jordan’s long-term support for the Palestinian cause and its solidarity with refugees.
He emphasized that safeguarding UNRWA means protecting the rights of over six million Palestinian refugees, ensuring their dignity and access to humanitarian aid, healthcare, and education. He cited General Assembly Resolution 194, underscoring the international community’s responsibility to support UNRWA until a comprehensive resolution is reached.
Khirfan expressed gratitude to donor nations and organizations for their continuous support of UNRWA. He hoped that the meeting’s recommendations would enhance the agency’s capacity to fulfill its mandate and protect Palestinian refugees’ rights, aiming for a fair resolution that includes repatriation and compensation, contributing to regional stability.
He conveyed condolences to the families of those martyred in Gaza and the West Bank, as well as to UNRWA and the families of its employees who lost their lives during the recent Israeli attacks. Despite efforts to undermine UNRWA’s mission, Khirfan highlighted the urgent need for international response and unity amid significant regional challenges.
Khirfan concluded by acknowledging the unprecedented challenges facing the agency, including escalating political campaigns aimed at curtailing its activities, particularly through Israeli Knesset decisions, and a severe financial crisis threatening its ability to continue essential services.