UNITED NATIONS: In a united call for humanitarian solidarity, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) at the UN has advocated for sustained funding of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA).

Recognising the escalating needs of the Gazan population, the OIC urged donors to reconsider their decision to suspend funds as UNRWA provides a critical lifeline to millions in their struggle for survival.

Pakistan’s UN Ambassador Munir Akram, representing the OIC at this special meeting of the UN General Assembly on Monday evening, reaffirmed the OIC’s steadfast commitment to the rights of Palestinian refugees, prominently including their fundamental right to return.

Addressing the session as the OIC’s acting Chair at the UN, Ambassador Akram underscored the OIC’s unwavering support for UNRWA, portraying the agency as a vital pillar of assistance for over 1.9 million displaced Gazans.

As the situation in Gaza remains dire, Ambassador Akram condemned the suspension of funds, highlighting its severe consequences for the vulnerable population heavily dependent on UNRWA’s assistance. “The OIC urges donors to reconsider their decision to suspend funds, recognising the critical importance of these contributions as millions rely on them for survival,” he said.

The impassioned plea stressed the urgent need for sustained international support to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza. “The OIC stands firmly behind UNRWA as a vital support for over 1.9 million displaced Gazans,” said the ambassador, underscoring the immense impact the agency has in alleviating the suffering of those affected by conflict. In the wake of recent tragic events, where over 100 Palestinians lost their lives and hundreds were injured in an attack by Israeli occupation forces, the OIC’s call for sustained funding echoes the pressing need to address the immediate and long-term needs of the Gazan population.

The OIC has positioned itself at the forefront of advocating for international solidarity to ensure UNRWA can continue its crucial mission, providing essential humanitarian aid and support for the displaced in Gaza.

The meeting, convened by the General Assembly’s President Dennis Francis, focused on the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where a recent attack by Israeli occupation forces resulted in the tragic loss of over 100 Palestinian lives and left hundreds more injured.

The General Assembly debated the use of veto by the United States on Feb 20, with the UNGA president saying, “the catastrophic situation in Gaza requires an urgent ceasefire.”

US Representative Robert Woods said his delegation is working on a new draft resolution which, he hoped, would lead to a ceasefire and the release of hostages as well. The 10 non-permanent Security Council members expressed regret at the US veto, saying the 15-member UN organ must shoulder its responsibilities.

In the afternoon, the General Assembly heard a briefing by UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini, who described the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza and the existential threat the agency is facing as it strives to deliver aid to desperate civilians.

Mr Lazzarini urged Member States to commit to a political process for peace between Palestinians and Israelis and to chart the transition of UNRWA in this context only.

In the immediate term, he appealed to the General Assembly to bridge the gap between UNRWA’s mandate and funding, ensuring support for its operations.

Mr Lazzarini also urged Member States that are seeking alternatives to UNRWA to do so in a way that did not compromise Palestine refugees’ right to self-determination.

Published in Dawn, March 6th, 2024