The Palestinian Embassy expressed gratitude to India on Tuesday following the release of the first tranche of USD 2.5 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). This contribution is part of India’s annual USD 5 million pledge for the years 2024-2025.
The embassy stated, “We extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to the Indian Government for the release of the first tranche of USD 2.5 million to UNRWA as part of its annual contribution for 2024-2025.” Additionally, the embassy acknowledged India’s pledge of support to UNRWA during a recent conference in New York, where India also committed to providing medicines upon request.
This financial and medical assistance from India is seen as a significant step in supporting and strengthening UNRWA amidst challenges posed by the Israeli government. The embassy emphasized the importance of increasing such assistance due to the urgent needs arising from the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Approximately 2.2 million Palestinians live in the Gaza Strip, with around 66 percent being refugees. The recent Israeli aggression has displaced about 2 million of these residents.
UNRWA, which serves over 6 million Palestinian refugees across Gaza, the West Bank, Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon, faces challenges from Israeli plans targeting its operations. The Palestinian Embassy hopes that India will leverage its international influence to help preserve and strengthen UNRWA, founded in 1949, to ensure the continuation of its vital services.
UNRWA’s role extends beyond providing essential services; it symbolizes the preservation of Palestinian refugee rights and their aspiration to return to their homes, from which they or their ancestors were displaced during the Nakba.
