India extends USD 5 million aid to Gaza, UN calls it "generous"

In the midst of the escalating conflict in Gaza, India fulfilled its annual commitment by releasing the second tranche of USD 2.5 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA).

This contribution by India, referred to as a "generous gesture," is set to bolster the UNRWA's critical services for Palestinian refugees amid the ongoing war, offering crucial support during a challenging period, the agency confirmed after New Delhi's recent release of funds.

UNRWA, established in 1950, remains dedicated to executing direct relief and works programs tailored for registered Palestinian refugees.

Expressing gratitude for India's continuous support, Tamara Alrifai, a spokesperson for UNRWA, acknowledged the significance of this recent contribution. "The latest generous gesture by India will help the Agency continue its lifesaving services towards Palestine Refugees," Alrifai remarked, emphasising the impact of India's aid.

Amid the turmoil in Gaza, Elizabeth Rodrigues, India's Charge deAffaires in Ramallah, facilitated the handover of the second tranche of USD 2.5 million, fulfilling India's commitment of 5 million US dollars for the year 2023-24.

UNRWA predominantly relies on voluntary contributions from member states of the United Nations for its funding.

India had previously released the first tranche of its annual commitment in November.

The agency, strained by the Gaza conflict, had previously lauded India's "generous contribution" due to the challenging situation in the region, particularly in Gaza.

The conflict in Gaza has placed significant strain on its population.

India's support aims to fortify the core programs and services of the UN agency, including education, healthcare, relief, and social services extended to Palestinian refugees.

New Delhi has reaffirmed its steadfast support for the agency's operations in the region and its commitment to Palestinian refugees.

Earlier in November, India had dispatched 32 tonnes of "humanitarian assistance to the people of Palestine" via the El-Arish Airport in Egypt.

Since 2018, India's total contributions to UNRWA amount to USD 30 million.

Following the conflict escalation on October 7, more than two-thirds of Gaza's population, approximately 2.3 million individuals, have fled their homes seeking refuge in the south.

UNRWA has faced significant challenges in providing essential services to hundreds of thousands of people sheltering in its facilities.

Even before the recent escalation, UNRWA had been under pressure due to increased demands for services, stemming from the growth in the number of registered Palestinian refugees, heightened vulnerability, and escalating poverty. Across its five operational fields, the agency is mandated to aid and protect about 5.6 million registered Palestine refugees.