Finland resumes UNRWA funding

Finnish Minister for Foreign Trade and Development, Ville Tavio, announced his country's resumption of funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA).

Finland, along with several other countries including the United States, had previously announced the suspension of funding to UNRWA, alleging involvement of agency staff in the events of Oct. 7 in “Operation Aqsa Typhoon.”

Also Read: US says “Israel” should allow UNRWA Commissioner-General into Gaza

The United Nations had warned of dire consequences for Palestinian refugees unless immediate funding was restored to UNRWA.

The UN added that the decision taken by some major UNRWA donors to freeze their payments could deprive the agency of more than 51 percent of its expected income for 2024, endangering crucial humanitarian response in Gaza, healthcare, education, relief, social services, and economic support for Palestinian refugee communities, including in Jordan, facing severe risks.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announced earlier on Wednesday that it will donate USD 40 million to UNRWA.

The funding will provide food for over 250,000 individuals and tents for 20,000 families in Gaza, The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center stated in a press release.

*Stay informed with our carefully curated content delivered directly to your inbox. Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive updates and in-depth analysis. Click here to subscribe.