Guterres called on nations to ensure the continuity of UNRWA's "lifesaving work" in the Gaza Strip.
The agency faces challenges to its credibility following accusations by Israel that 12 of its members were linked to the October 7 operation by the Palestinian Resistance. Several countries, led by the United States, have defunded UNRWA in response.
During a meeting with the UN Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People, Guterres expressed personal horror at the allegations and reassured donors that measures were being taken to address the situation. However, the claims against UNRWA members have not been substantiated.
UN relief chief Martin Griffith stressed the agency's vital role in Gaza, highlighting that humanitarian operations in the region rely on UNRWA's funding. Griffith condemned the alleged actions of a few members and urged the restoration of funds to avoid jeopardizing the well-being of Gaza's population.
In a joint statement with the Inter-Agency Standing Committee, Griffith emphasized the need to support UNRWA for it to fulfill its responsibilities to Palestinians affected by the Israeli conflict.
The US ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, stated that tangible reform within UNRWA is necessary to prevent such incidents. She clarified that the US decision to defund UNRWA was independent of other donors.
UNRWA faces an urgent funding crisis, announcing that if funding is not resumed, it won't be able to continue operations in Gaza and the region beyond the end of February. The agency plays a unique and irreplaceable role in providing essential services to the population in Gaza. (ILKHA)