Reaffirming UNRWA’s essential role for Palestinian well-being and rights

Jamil Sawalmeh, Country Director of ActionAid Palestine, says: “The decision by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is welcomed as a confirmation of what we have been seeing firsthand and calling for all along. UNRWA has played an indispensable role in providing vital services to Palestinian refugees for decades and it represents an integral component of Palestinian survival, dignity and identity.  

“As the world discusses the future and recovery of Gaza after two years of relentless bombardments and dismantling of humanitarian assistance, and as the situation continues to worsen in the West Bank, ActionAid stands for UNRWA's institutions and efforts to be fully funded, reinstated and facilitated throughout the occupied Palestinian territory.  

“There can be no true freedom or self-determination for Palestinians while living under occupation, today’s ruling reaffirms that. For nearly two years, Israel’s military assault, the blockade of aid, and the deliberate creation of famine conditions have pushed Gaza to the brink of collapse. 

“The International Court of Justice has made clear: as an occupying power, Israel is legally obliged to ensure the survival and basic needs of Palestinians, not weaponise starvation against them. This is not optional; it is international law. 

“Even if Israel continues to ignore these rulings, the responsibility now lies with all UN member states to act. The world must stop enabling Israel’s impunity and hold it accountable for violations of humanitarian law. 

ENDS