UNRWA Warns of Education Crisis and Systematic Starvation in Gaza
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has warned of a deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, announcing the establishment of 330 temporary educational spaces in 59 shelters across the region. Despite lacking basic infrastructure and educational materials, these facilities are currently providing education to over 44,000 children.
According to official statements by the agency, severe financial constraints and restrictive policies imposed by the Israeli government have pushed UNRWA to the brink of collapse. Adnan Abu Hasna, UNRWA’s media adviser, stated that the budget shortfall has not only impacted the education sector but has also severely affected healthcare services and food provision, impacting millions of Palestinian refugees in Gaza, the West Bank, Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan.
He further noted that mounting restrictions and moves to legalize a ban on UNRWA’s activities have led to a significant accumulation of debt. The agency now expects its budget deficit to reach approximately $200 million by the end of the first quarter of next year. According to Abu Hasna, the financial shortfall threatens the salaries of more than 30,000 employees working across UNRWA’s operational areas.
As pressure mounts on defenseless Palestinian civilians—especially children—a number of humanitarian and rights organizations have warned that the continuation of current conditions will cast an even darker shadow over the future of deprived generations in the region. Despite the catastrophic situation, the Taliban administration has so far remained silent and indifferent to the ongoing human crisis.
