London, Feb. 1 (Petra) – Ireland’s Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Minister of Defence Simon Harris expressed deep concern regarding the implementation of Israeli legislation affecting the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). Harris warned that the law’s implications would have far-reaching consequences for the agency’s operations in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Harris noted that Palestinians displaced by conflict are returning to scenes of immense destruction, affecting their homes, livelihoods, and vital services such as health and education. He emphasized that this makes UNRWA’s role more critical than ever.

The Deputy Prime Minister stated that UNRWA possesses the capabilities and infrastructure that no other entity can replace in providing humanitarian aid, along with essential services in education, health, and social relief, not only in Gaza and the West Bank but across the region.

Harris reaffirmed Ireland’s unwavering support for UNRWA, urging Israel to reconsider the legislation and immediately suspend its implementation.

In a similar statement, Iceland expressed profound regret over the new Israeli laws regarding UNRWA, reiterating that the agency’s role is now more crucial than ever.

Icelandic Foreign Minister ??rd?s Kolbr?n Reykfj?r? Gylfad?ttir, in a post on the X on Saturday, stressed that UNRWA plays a vital role in providing necessary support to Palestinian refugees, an essential element for achieving a long-awaited ceasefire in Gaza, alleviating humanitarian suffering, and bringing stability to the region.

//Petra// AF
01/02/2025 21:34:16