In response to the unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe unfolding in the Gaza Strip, Ireland has come forward and announced a critical additional contribution of EUR 10 million in lifesaving funding for Palestinian refugees.

In a press release issued last week, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) said this core funding will help the Agency sustain its response and operations in the coming months. The support from Ireland is in addition to EUR 8 million already received earlier this year. 

“I express my gratitude to the Government of Ireland for its swift and decisive support to Palestine Refugees and UNRWA. This new vital contribution to UNRWA core activities stresses once more Ireland’s role to lead by example”, said UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini.

“I hope other donors will follow as generously to support the response to escalating needs in this time of unprecedented crisis for the people of Gaza,” added Lazzarini.

UNRWA issued a US$ 104 million Gaza Flash Appeal in response to the escalation in the Gaza Strip.   

Nearly 5,100 Palestinians, including over 2,000 children, have been killed in the Gaza Strip since Israel launched a relentless bombing campaign against the besieged enclave after an attack by Hamas inside Israel more than two weeks ago.