Posted: Monday, March 17, 2025. 9:54 am CST.
By Zoila Palma: UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini has acknowledged the “stressful” nature of leading the embattled UN agency but remains confident he is on the “right side of history.”
The 61-year-old has faced intense criticism from Israel since Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack and the ensuing Gaza conflict, AFP reports.
Despite these challenges, Lazzarini expressed confidence in his mission, even though the agency is grappling with severe funding shortages and mounting political pressures.
UNRWA, which supports nearly six million Palestinian refugees across the region, has seen its relations with Israel deteriorate, especially after Israel accused some of its staff of involvement in the October 7 attack.
This led to temporary suspensions of support from several nations. Lazzarini warned that the agency could collapse without adequate funding, with its current resources lasting only until June.
Israel has severed ties with UNRWA, banning its operations on Israeli soil, further complicating humanitarian efforts. Lazzarini stressed that while other organizations could distribute aid, none could replace UNRWA’s vital services like education and healthcare. He warned that the loss of these services would severely impact future generations, especially in Gaza, where children face education disruptions.
Despite intense criticism and disinformation, Lazzarini remains resolute, saying, “If I didn’t feel that I am still on the right side of history, I don’t think I would continue.” He emphasized the importance of giving a voice to Palestinian refugees, who he believes are “voiceless.”
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The post International News: UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini stands firm amid criticism, confident he’s on ‘Right Side of History’ appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Posted: Monday, March 17, 2025. 9:54 am CST. By Zoila Palma: UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini has acknowledged the “stressful” nature of leading the embattled UN agency
The post International News: UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini stands firm amid criticism, confident he’s on ‘Right Side of History’ appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.