Egypt Condemns Israeli Legislation Targeting UNRWA Amid Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

Strategic Insights -

Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs Badr Abdelatty strongly condemned the Israeli legislation aimed at terminating the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in the occupied Palestinian territories, citing the agency's critical role in providing relief and employment for Palestinian refugees. The minister's remarks came during a meeting with UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini to discuss the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and ways to support the Palestinian people. The Egyptian government emphasized its full and unwavering support for UNRWA and its indispensable role in maintaining international peace and security.

Key Takeaways:

  • Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs Badr Abdelatty condemned the Israeli legislation aimed at terminating UNRWA, warning that it threatens to undermine international law and international institutions.
  • The minister expressed appreciation for the efforts of UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini and his team in serving Palestinian refugees, despite facing financial, operational, and political challenges.
  • Abdelatty offered condolences for the deaths of over 360 UNRWA staff members as a result of ongoing Israeli military operations and condemned the violations targeting the agency's facilities and personnel.
  • The minister reaffirmed Egypt's full and unwavering support for UNRWA, stressing its irreplaceable role in providing relief and employment for Palestinian refugees.
  • Abdelatty emphasized the need for UNRWA to remain committed to its UN-mandated role and called on the international community to fulfill its financial and political obligations to support the agency's operations.
  • The minister also reviewed Egypt's efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid, as well as plans to host an international conference to provide support for early recovery and reconstruction in Gaza.

Statistics:

  • Over 360 UNRWA staff members have died as a result of ongoing Israeli military operations.
  • The associate Palestinian population is facing significant humanitarian challenges, including those in Gaza.
  • Egypt plans to host an international conference to provide support for early recovery and reconstruction in Gaza, in coordination with Palestine, the United Nations, and international partners.

Sources:

  • "Egyptian minister condemns Israeli legislation targeting UNRWA" – Middle East News Agency (06 Sep 2025)
  • "Egypt condemns Israeli attempt to terminate UNRWA, reaffirms support" – official statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Arab Republic of Egypt (no date, Sept 2025)