The Israeli Foreign Minister, Eli Cohen, has commended the Swiss Parliaments move to cease funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). The lower house of the Swiss parliament voted on Tuesday to terminate USD 21 million in funding, acknowledging UNRWAs alleged glorification of terrorism against Israel.Applauding a Bold DecisionMinister Cohen congratulated the Swiss Parliament for its decisive step to halt UNRWA funding, denouncing the aid organisation as one that worsens the lives of Gaza residents instead of providing genuine assistance.UNRWA is part of the problem and not of the solution, stated Cohen, highlighting concerns about the organizations alleged promotion of terrorism and its failure to address Hamass use of Gaza residents as human shields.UNRWAs ResponseIn response to the Swiss decision, UNRWAs Commissioner-General, Philippe Lazzarini, expressed disappointment, emphasising the agencys recognition as a major humanitarian actor in Gaza & the region. Lazzarini expressed hope that the Swiss Senate would overturn the lower houses resolution.Controversial HistoryThe decision comes amid ongoing controversy, with accusations that UNRWA schools in Gaza have been used as bases for terrorist activities by Hamas, raising questions about the agencys role in the region.
