The UK's £24 million pledge to UNRWA is a timely reminder of the agency's indispensable role in supporting millions of Palestinian refugees across the Middle East. With a staggering 392 staff killed since October 2023, working conditions for those who remain are nothing short of perilous – yet they continue to deliver vital services, such as over 18.7 million health consultations in Gaza alone.
At the UNRWA Pledging Conference 2026, Ambassador James Kariuki highlighted the agency's vital work, including providing clean water for approximately 860,000 people daily and supporting 1,900 conflict-displaced individuals in Lebanon through emergency shelters. The UK's funding underscores its commitment to safeguarding UNRWA's mandate, which it believes is crucial for regional stability and supports the rights of Palestine refugees pending a lasting political solution.
The UK also used the platform to condemn actions taken by the Israeli government, specifically mentioning Knesset legislation aimed at restricting UNRWA's operations in Palestine. Ambassador Kariuki stressed that Israel must adhere to its obligations to respect the inviolability of UN premises, aligning with UN Security Council Resolution 2803.
A portion of the UK's funding is earmarked to support the implementation of the Colonna Report's recommendations, which focus on strengthening neutrality, governance, and oversight within UNRWA. The UK has welcomed progress on these reforms and reiterated its commitment to supporting further improvements as co-chair of the Neutrality Working Group.
The UK's pledge is a significant step towards ensuring that UNRWA continues to operate effectively and transparently, providing stability, dignity, and hope amidst extensive operational challenges in Gaza and beyond. As a major contributor to the agency, the UK's sustained financing and political backing will be crucial in enabling UNRWA to maintain its critical services.