Egypt Urges US to Resume Financial Support for UNRWA
Egypt’s foreign minister, Sameh Shoukry, recently met with a delegation from the US House Committee on Homeland Security, led by August Pfluger, to discuss the importance of resuming financial support for UNRWA, the UN aid agency for Palestinians. Shoukry emphasized the impact of the decision to halt funding on Palestinian refugees in Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon.
Impact of Funding Suspension
Following accusations from Israel that 12 of UNRWA’s 13,000 employees in the Gaza Strip were involved in a Hamas-led assault on Israel on Oct. 7, a total of 16 countries suspended their financial support for the agency. Shoukry highlighted the urgent need for humanitarian aid to enter Gaza in sufficient quantities to meet the growing need and stressed the importance of an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire.
Security Council Resolution 2720
Shoukry called for the implementation of Security Council Resolution 2720, which gives the UN a mandate to facilitate the entry of aid into Gaza. He also reiterated Egypt’s rejection of any Israeli military operation against the Palestinian city of Rafah, warning that such an operation would result in a humanitarian catastrophe for over 1.4 million displaced people.
Egypt’s Efforts for Security and Stability
Shoukry emphasized Egypt’s ongoing efforts to bring security and stability to the region amidst threats of armed conflicts, terrorism, and economic challenges. He highlighted Egypt’s comprehensive strategy for fighting terrorism, which addresses economic, social, cultural, educational, and development issues to eradicate the problem at its roots.
Support for Egypt’s Role in Regional Peace
The visiting US delegation expressed their appreciation for Egypt’s role in supporting regional peace, security, and stability. They emphasized the importance of strong Egypt-US relations and offered their full support for Egypt’s efforts to reach a permanent ceasefire agreement in Gaza.
Looking Ahead
As tensions continue to escalate in the region, it is crucial for international partners to support humanitarian efforts and work towards sustainable solutions for conflict resolution. Egypt’s call for the resumption of financial support for UNRWA underscores the urgent need to address the humanitarian crisis affecting Palestinian refugees.
In conclusion, Egypt’s efforts to promote security and stability in the region, coupled with its advocacy for humanitarian aid in Gaza, demonstrate its commitment to fostering peace and addressing the needs of vulnerable populations. By working together with international partners, Egypt aims to contribute to lasting peace and stability in the Middle East.