Egypt will not accept alternative to UNRWA, says FM

Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs said yesterday that his country will not allow or accept the creation of any alternative to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). The Palestinian issue, added Badr Abdel Aty, is a top priority for Egypt’s foreign policy.

“UNRWA is one of the most important UN agencies working in the humanitarian field, especially in light of the blatant violations of international law and international humanitarian law witnessed by the occupied Palestinian territories,” explained Abdel Aty during a joint press conference with UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini. “Egypt is constantly eager to work closely with UNRWA to perform its noble mission.”

The minister pointed out the necessity of an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, unconditional access to humanitarian and health aid to the besieged Strip, and working seriously to implement the two-state solution by establishing an independent Palestinian state on the borders of 4 June, 1967.

Abdel Aty warned that the Gaza Strip can no longer tolerate further destruction. “The Israeli military machine has destroyed all facilities and infrastructure, in addition to the systematic targeting of UNRWA institutions and buildings, which is a blatant violation of international law, and its continuation cannot be accepted.”

He called on the international community to intensify pressure for an immediate ceasefire, stressing that Egypt provides support to the wounded in the Gaza Strip, as Egyptian hospitals host large numbers of them and their families. Regarding Egyptian efforts to help the Palestinians, Abdel Aty also claimed that Cairo had provided more than 70 per cent of the aid that has been allowed to enter the besieged territory.

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