The future of humanitarian relief in Gaza is under a cloud after a stunning declaration from the US Secretary of State, who has barred the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) from participating in aid delivery under the Trump administration’s ceasefire plan.
In a fiery press conference at the American headquarters in Kiryat Gat on Friday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio accused the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) of being a “subsidiary of Hamas.”
“The United Nations is here, they’re on the ground, we’re willing to work with them if they can make it work,” Rubio stated, clarifying the US position. “But not UNRWA. UNRWA became a subsidiary of Hamas.”
Instead of UNRWA, Rubio said a conglomerate of up to a dozen groups, including the UN and other humanitarian organizations, would be involved in the aid efforts.
The move comes even as the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled earlier this week that Israel must allow UNRWA to provide humanitarian assistance, stating there was “no evidence” that the agency had breached impartiality rules, as claimed by Israel.
Agency Hits Back on Vital Role
Despite Israel halting the entry of UNRWA supplies since March, the agency continues to operate health centers, mobile medical teams, sanitation services, and school classes in Gaza. UNRWA is pressing for the entry of 6,000 trucks of supplies currently waiting outside the territory.
While not directly responding to Rubio’s charge, UNRWA posted multiple social media statements on Friday asserting its critical role. One post highlighted the ICJ’s recognition that “no organisation can replace UNRWA’s role in supporting the people of Gaza.”
‘No Plan B’ for Ceasefire
Rubio’s visit was part of a series of top-level US engagements at the center overseeing the Gaza ceasefire, following visits by Vice President JD Vance and envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
He staunchly defended the ceasefire, insisting it was working despite challenges surrounding hostage remains, aid provision, and Israeli air strikes.
“We’re all committed to making this plan work,” Rubio emphasized. “There is no Plan B. This is the best plan. It’s the only plan.”
In addition to aid delivery, the US is working to secure international support, especially from Gulf Arab nations, to establish a stabilization force in Gaza, potentially requiring a UN mandate for authorization. Rubio noted that many countries have expressed interest, but decisions are still needed regarding command, authority, and rules of engagement.
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