NEW YORK, November 19, 2025 (WAFA) — The Fourth Committee of the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution on Wednesday on assistance to Palestinian refugees and the renewal of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) mandate, with 149 countries voting in favor, 10 against, and 13 abstaining.
In the resolution, the General Assembly expressed regret over the continued inability to return refugees to their homes or compensate them, noting that their situation remains deeply concerning. It emphasized the importance of providing assistance to meet their basic health, education, and livelihood needs.
The resolution reaffirmed the necessity of UNRWA operations and called for its work to continue unhindered until a just solution to the Palestinian refugee issue is reached. The agency’s mandate was renewed until June 30, 2029.
Prior to the vote, UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini highlighted the importance of renewing the agency’s mandate to protect and assist Palestinian refugees until a just and lasting solution is achieved.
Speaking at a meeting of UNRWA’s Advisory Committee in Amman, Jordan, Lazzarini stressed that adequate funding for the agency’s public services is essential to safeguard the rights, lives, and futures of millions of refugees.
Lazzarini also expressed hope that the recent UN Security Council Resolution 2803 on Gaza would contribute to lasting peace and the respect of human rights.
The Commissioner noted that the situation in Gaza remains unstable after two years of continuous Israeli bombardment, repeated displacement, and a harsh blockade.
He denied claims that UNRWA had ceased operations in Gaza, stating: "This is far from reality. The agency continues to operate and remains the largest provider of public health and education services."
Lazzarini also addressed the West Bank, noting that more than 32,000 people have been forcibly displaced from northern refugee camps due to Israeli military actions — marking the largest displacement of Palestinian refugees since 1967. He warned that colonist violence has reached unprecedented levels, recording over 500 incidents in October alone.
He further highlighted the vital services UNRWA provides to Palestinian refugees outside the occupied territories, including in Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan, emphasizing the need for continued international support to maintain these operations.
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