Italy (Washington Insider Magazine)— Italy has stated that it will resume funding for the United Nations agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA), months after suspending help due to Israeli allegations linking UN officials to the deadly October 7 attack. Rome has joined several Western countries in resuming aid after an independent examination of UNRWA, chaired by French former foreign minister Catherine Colonna, determined that Israel had not produced any proof to back up its assertions.
Independent Review and Funding Resumption
Italy’s decision follows an independent review of UNRWA led by former French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna. The review found no evidence provided by Israel to support its claims against UNRWA staff. Consequently, Italy joins other Western donors, including the United States and the European Union, in resuming aid to the agency.
Humanitarian Crisis and Funding Allocation
According to France24, The persistent humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, aggravated by Israeli limitations on assistance delivery, has prompted key donors to resume funding for UNRWA. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said that Italy will fund particular programs for Palestinian refugees under stringent monitoring to avoid funds from being used to promote terrorism. Italy has given 35 million euros ($38 million) for Palestinian help, with UNRWA receiving five million euros and the rest 30 million euros going to the “Food for Gaza” initiative, which is being coordinated with UN aid agencies.
UNRWA’s Role and Challenges
UNRWA has been a crucial player in coordinating aid to Gaza since its establishment in 1949. The agency employs around 30,000 people across the occupied Palestinian territories, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. Despite facing significant challenges and allegations, an independent review acknowledged UNRWA’s indispensable role in supporting Palestinians’ human and economic development.
Italian Government’s Stance
During his meeting with Tajani, Prime Minister Mustafa learned of Italy’s continued financial help. Mustafa also met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who underlined Italy’s commitment to efforts to achieve a permanent ceasefire in the ongoing war between Hamas and Israel. Meloni also underscored the significance of releasing hostages held by Hamas and providing humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Background of the Conflict
The current battle occurred after Hamas launched an attack on October 7, killing around 1,170 people, the majority of whom were civilians, and capturing 252 hostages, 121 of whom are still in Gaza. According to the health ministry of Hamas-run Gaza, Israel’s ensuing military response has killed at least 35,857 individuals, the majority of whom are women and children.
Italy’s resumption of funding for UNRWA stresses the international community’s recognition of the agency’s major role in providing humanitarian aid to Palestinians amidst a deteriorating and ongoing crisis.