The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) announced a EUR 400,000 contribution from European Union Humanitarian Aid in response to the humanitarian consequences of the May 2023 conflict in Gaza.

The EU’s contribution to the Agency's response will benefit the families whose shelters have suffered partial damage as a result of the Israeli attacks on Gaza.

European Commissioner for Crisis Management, Janez Lenarčič, said: “We stand in solidarity with the Palestinian refugee families affected by the recent violence in Gaza. The EU’s contribution to UNRWA aims to empower vulnerable families with cash assistance to help them regain stability and rebuild their lives.”

According to a Shelter Cluster report, a total of 2,943 housing units were damaged or destroyed, with 2,700 units sustaining partial damage but remaining liveable; Some 70 per cent of these households are Palestine Refugee households.

UNRWA said the Agency’s initial goal is to assist 1,890 families, totalling approximately 10,584 beneficiaries, with emergency cash assistance of NIS 754 (approximately EUR 196) per household. This one-time multi-purpose cash assistance will allow families to address their immediate relief needs, while helping restore normal living conditions in their damaged homes.

"Many families have lost their homes in the recent war. The European Union’s support for UNRWA is vital for providing immediate relief to families in a way that empowers them to make decisions about what they need to survive," said Thomas White, Director of UNRWA Affairs in Gaza.

The recent Israeli attacks on Gaza claimed over 33 lives, including many women and children. Palestine Refugees continue to face enormous challenges due to the psychological trauma caused by prolonged exposure to violence. The sixteen-year-old land, air, and sea blockade exacerbate the precarious situation.