Saudi Arabia's support for UNRWA: A $2 million contribution to refugee relief

In a move reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s unwavering commitment to the Palestinian cause, Saudi support for UNRWA as a cornerstone of international humanitarian efforts. The Kingdom consistently strives to stand with the brotherly Palestinian people in their most difficult times, most recently demonstrated by its regular annual contribution to the budget of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).

Historical context: Firm commitment to the Palestinian cause

Historically, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has consistently provided all forms of political, material, and moral support to the Palestinian people. Since the establishment of UNRWA in 1949 by a resolution of the United Nations General Assembly, Saudi donations have been a vital lifeline for the agency. This ongoing support stems from the directives of the wise leadership, which places the Palestinian cause at the forefront of its diplomatic and humanitarian priorities. The Kingdom is among the largest donors to UNRWA globally, reflecting a deep understanding of the importance of providing the essentials for a dignified life for refugees in the five areas of operation: Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip.

Details of Saudi Arabia's $2 million support for UNRWA

As part of this commitment, His Royal Highness Prince Mansour bin Khalid bin Farhan, Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, presented a check for two million US dollars. This support was received by the Acting Commissioner-General of UNRWA, Mr. Christian Saunders. This grant represents the Kingdom's annual contribution to support the Agency's budget, programs, and vital operations in the region. During the meeting, His Royal Highness the Ambassador affirmed the Kingdom's commitment, under the directives of its wise leadership, to supporting the Palestinian cause and assisting the brotherly Palestinian people, and to enabling the Agency to fulfill its social, humanitarian, educational, and health obligations and responsibilities.

Regional and international importance and impact of the contribution

This donation is of paramount importance at this time, especially given the difficult and harsh conditions faced by Palestinian refugees. Locally and regionally, this funding contributes to the continued provision of essential services to millions of refugees, alleviating poverty and unemployment and preventing further deterioration of the humanitarian situation, which in turn positively impacts the stability of the entire region. Internationally, continued Saudi funding sends a strong message to the international community about the need to uphold its responsibilities towards UNRWA, particularly at a time when the agency is facing unprecedented financial challenges and campaigns aimed at diminishing its vital role.

Refugee relief and continuation of vital services

His Excellency the Ambassador commended the vital role played by UNRWA in providing humanitarian services to the Palestinian people and alleviating their daily suffering. For his part, the Acting Commissioner-General of UNRWA, Christian Saunders, expressed his deep gratitude to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its continued and unwavering support. He affirmed that this funding will enable UNRWA to continue implementing its various programs to serve and provide relief to Palestinian refugees, including the operation of schools and health centers, and the provision of emergency food assistance, thus ensuring the preservation of the refugees' dignity and rights until a just and comprehensive solution to their plight is reached.