Saudi Arabia has reaffirmed its strong support for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), describing it as an essential and irreplaceable provider of education, healthcare, and humanitarian aid to Palestinian refugees. The remarks were made by the Kingdom’s permanent representative to the UN, Abdulaziz Alwasil, while chairing the General Assembly meeting of the UNRWA Pledging Conference on July 1, 2026, in New York.
Kingdom's Unwavering Commitment
Alwasil said the Kingdom is one of the agency’s largest supporters, reiterating its unwavering commitment to UNRWA and the Palestinian people. He warned that targeting UNRWA is part of efforts to undermine the Palestinian refugee issue outside the framework of international law, and called for urgently closing the agency’s funding gap to ensure the continuity of its services.
Financial Assistance and Capacity Building
Alwasil also said the Kingdom has provided financial assistance for development and humanitarian projects through UNRWA, strengthening the agency’s capacity to meet the growing needs of Palestinian refugees. According to a statement from the Saudi mission to the UN, the Kingdom's support includes contributions to education, healthcare, and emergency relief programs.
Call for International Support
The Saudi envoy urged other member states to step up their contributions, emphasizing that UNRWA's work is critical for regional stability and the well-being of millions of refugees. He noted that the agency faces a significant funding shortfall that threatens its ability to deliver essential services.
