Israeli authorities must lift their planned late-January ban on activities by UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees), urged Belgian European Commissioner Hadja Lahbib on Thursday.
"My main message, my first hope, is that the Israeli authorities will reconsider this legislation, at least by postponing its implementation," Lahbib said in an interview with European journalists, following the announcement of a ceasefire between Israel and armed group Hamas, which the EU classes as a terrorist organisation. "The context has changed now, and we must give this ceasefire a chance."
On Wednesday, UNRWA Director Philippe Lazzarini affirmed that the UN agency would continue providing aid to populations in Palestinian territories despite its ban by Israel, which views the agency as an accomplice of Hamas. This ban is condemned by most of the international community.
The European Commission announced a new aid package for Gaza on Thursday. It amounts to €120 million in 2025, in addition to supplies delivered via the humanitarian airlift established by Europe. This aid includes food, medical and sanitary assistance, shelters and more. These will be delivered by UN agencies, including UNRWA, and other local partners.
Lahbib said the ceasefire announced on Wednesday offers hope for a lasting truce, but the situation remains "very fragile," as evidenced by dozens of deaths in Gaza over the past 24 hours.
"I see that there are different versions of this ceasefire. I hope we will have a clear one soon. What is desperately awaited is the release of hostages and unimpeded access to humanitarian aid," she emphasised.
The Commissioner is set to depart for the Middle East later on Thursday.
