UNGA votes to prolong UNRWA's mandate for three more years

The United Nations General Assembly has voted to prolong the mandate of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) for an additional three years. UNRWAs Commissioner-General, Philippe Lazzarini, praised the decisive vote, stating it "demonstrates the widespread global support for Palestine Refugees."

Lazzarini emphasized that the decision not only highlights international solidarity but also underscores the global responsibility to provide humanitarian aid and support human development for Palestine Refugees while a long-term, just solution remains unresolved.

He added, "This vote must now translate into concrete commitments and adequate resources to fully implement the mandate."

UNRWA delivers essential services that empower Palestine Refugees in areas such as education, healthcare, social support, camp infrastructure, microfinance, and emergency relief.

Israel has barred the agency, accusing it of facilitating Hamas's military activities. Reports indicate that Hamas weapons were discovered in a UNRWA-associated bag in Rafah in April 2025.

Countries that opposed the renewal alongside Israel included Argentina, Fiji, Hungary, North Macedonia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Tonga, and the United States. An additional fourteen nations abstained from the vote.

Last month, Israel identified two Hamas operatives, Ashraf Mahd El Madhoun and Mohammed Ibrahim Abd Ghafour, who had previously been employed by UNRWA.

Author: Harper Simmons