Israeli Foreign Minister praises Swiss decision to cut UNRWA funding

The Israeli Foreign Minister, Eli Cohen, has commended the Swiss Parliament's 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 UNRWA's alleged "glorification" of terrorism against Israel.

Applauding a Bold Decision

Minister 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 organization's alleged promotion of terrorism and its failure to address Hamas's use of Gaza residents as human shields.

UNRWA's Response

In response to the Swiss decision, UNRWA's Commissioner-General, Philippe Lazzarini, expressed disappointment, emphasising the agency's recognition as a "major humanitarian actor in Gaza & the region." Lazzarini expressed hope that the Swiss Senate would overturn the lower house's resolution.

Controversial History

The 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 agency's role in the region.