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UNRWA Announces Reduction Cuts Due to Funding Shortfall
(MENAFN) The UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) has announced a 20% reduction in its services due to a critical funding shortfall, its chief Philippe Lazzarini said Wednesday, urging donor countries to translate political support into tangible financial contributions.
Speaking to Anadolu, Lazzarini described the agency’s situation as a major financial crisis, with a shortfall exceeding $200 million, preventing UNRWA from maintaining all its programs across the region. He explained that despite previous austerity measures in 2025, further cuts were necessary.
“These reductions mean, for example, that students will attend school four days instead of five, and health clinics will operate 32 hours per week instead of 40,” he said.
Daily Struggles in Gaza
Addressing conditions in Gaza, Lazzarini highlighted the severe limitations at the Rafah border crossing, reopened under strict Israeli restrictions. Currently, only 50 people are allowed to cross, and only on foot, making it “not a new supply route” for Gaza.
He emphasized that residents continue to suffer despite the “in name only” ceasefire with Israel that began on Oct. 10, 2025. Basic needs remain unmet, winter conditions are harsh, and health care is limited, making survival a daily challenge.
“They continue to struggle for the basics. Shelter is scarce, health conditions are very poor. It’s a daily struggle for survival that remains ongoing in Gaza,” Lazzarini concluded.
Speaking to Anadolu, Lazzarini described the agency’s situation as a major financial crisis, with a shortfall exceeding $200 million, preventing UNRWA from maintaining all its programs across the region. He explained that despite previous austerity measures in 2025, further cuts were necessary.
“These reductions mean, for example, that students will attend school four days instead of five, and health clinics will operate 32 hours per week instead of 40,” he said.
Daily Struggles in Gaza
Addressing conditions in Gaza, Lazzarini highlighted the severe limitations at the Rafah border crossing, reopened under strict Israeli restrictions. Currently, only 50 people are allowed to cross, and only on foot, making it “not a new supply route” for Gaza.
He emphasized that residents continue to suffer despite the “in name only” ceasefire with Israel that began on Oct. 10, 2025. Basic needs remain unmet, winter conditions are harsh, and health care is limited, making survival a daily challenge.
“They continue to struggle for the basics. Shelter is scarce, health conditions are very poor. It’s a daily struggle for survival that remains ongoing in Gaza,” Lazzarini concluded.
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