Sweden will halt funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and redirect humanitarian assistance to Gaza through alternative channels, Aid Minister Benjamin Dousa told Swedish broadcaster TV4 on Friday.
The decision follows Israel’s announcement of a ban on UNRWA operations within its borders starting in late January, citing allegations that the agency was involved in the October 7 Hamas-led attacks on Israel that sparked the ongoing war in Gaza.
Humanitarian aid enters Gaza
(Video: COGAT)
Dousa said the Israeli ban complicates the flow of aid through UNRWA and confirmed Sweden’s plan to increase overall humanitarian assistance to Gaza next year via organizations like the UN World Food Program. "There are several other organizations in Gaza; I have just been there and met several of them," Dousa said.
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Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel welcomed the move, praising Dousa’s decision as a step toward cooperation. "His decision highlights the importance of diplomatic dialogue between nations and our ability to change reality through meaningful conversation," Haskel said, emphasizing the availability of alternative aid channels.
Meanwhile, the UN General Assembly earlier this month called on Israel to respect UNRWA’s mandate and allow the agency to operate without restrictions, underlining global support for its continued role in the region.