'I am gravely concerned about Israeli legislation on UNRWA which entered into force on January 30,' says Deputy Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris
Ireland on Friday announced a further $20.7 million in support for the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) for its work providing assistance to people in Gaza, the West Bank and Palestine refugees across the Middle East.
In a statement, Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris reiterated that Ireland warmly welcomed the hostage release and ceasefire agreement in Gaza and has echoed calls for the return of all hostages to their families.
"It is vital that the hostage release and ceasefire deal be fully implemented in all its phases," he said.
Harris announced €20 million ($20.7 million) in support to UNRWA which shows "Ireland's commitment to ensuring that there is a significant and meaningful surge in humanitarian aid into Gaza at this critical time."
There is no replacement for the work of UNRWA and it is vital that it is supported, he added."I am gravely concerned about Israeli legislation on UNRWA which entered into force on January 30," noted Harris, urging Israel to reconsider these measures.
Last October, the Israeli parliament passed two laws that called for ending UNRWA's operations in Israel and occupied Palestinian territories, and prohibiting Israeli authorities from having any contact with the agency. The laws came into effect last week.
Ireland has provided over €63 million ($65.4 million) in support of the Palestinian people since the beginning of 2023.
The latest aid came a few days after US President Donald Trump withdrew Washington from the UN Human Rights Council and extended a funding ban on UNRWA.
Following the US, Israel announced Wednesday that it is also withdrawing from the UN Human Rights Council.
