UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini emphasized that the agency must be central to Gaza’s reconstruction, highlighting that its 12,000 staff continue providing primary health services daily despite immense challenges. He stressed that UNRWA has the most experience and skilled workforce in both health and education sectors.
Lazzarini noted that he has not reviewed the details of the proposed US plan for Gaza, which includes a 21-point blueprint for a ceasefire and reconstruction. However, he stressed that UNRWA is a critical asset for the international community to implement any sustainable recovery efforts.
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The top UN official explained that reaching a ceasefire remains the most urgent priority, as all reconstruction and humanitarian plans depend on halting the conflict. He added that the New York Declaration, recently endorsed by 142 countries, also serves as a roadmap toward a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine.
The US-proposed plan envisions a permanent ceasefire, the release of hostages, an Israeli withdrawal, and a flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza. Lazzarini described these commitments as essential, while stressing that UNRWA’s expertise can ensure reforms succeed and Palestinian institutions are strengthened.
Despite Israel’s boycott of UNRWA officials, Lazzarini insisted the agency would inevitably play a central role in post-war Gaza. He highlighted the importance of restoring education, saying hundreds of thousands of children must return to schools to prevent future violence and instability.
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Criticizing the US- and Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, Lazzarini called it a “death trap” and “abomination,” blaming it for worsening hunger and famine. He refuted Israeli allegations that UNRWA provided cover for militants, stating that donor governments and the UN continue to support the agency’s vital mission.