NEW YORK, April 5, 2026 (WAFA) – Jonathan Fowler, Director of Communications for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), stated that political and economic pressures have led to a 20% reduction in services provided to Palestinian refugees, amidst a worsening financial crisis that threatens the agency's ability to continue its operations.

In a press interview on Sunday, Fowler indicated that UNRWA is directly targeted by smear campaigns aimed at undermining its work and damaging its image.

He noted a significant decline in adherence to international law, explaining that violations are no longer met with even attempts at justification, as was the case in the past.

He added: "In the past, when international law was violated, there was at least some embarrassment or an attempt to portray the violation as having occurred. Today, however, we are faced with a reality where some openly say: International law doesn't concern me, and I don't consider myself bound by it."

Fowler noted that the Israeli authorities' takeover and demolition of UNRWA offices in East Jerusalem last January is a prime example of these violations.

He explained that this action constitutes a clear violation, given that UNRWA is a United Nations agency, meaning that targeting its facilities is tantamount to targeting UN facilities. Furthermore, East Jerusalem is considered occupied territory under international law.

Fowler pointed out that UNRWA is facing a severe financial crisis, primarily due to its reliance on voluntary donations, which makes its funding "vulnerable to political fluctuations."

He stated that the agency is suffering from a cash deficit of approximately $100 million, forcing it to reduce its services by 20%, including in the education, healthcare, and sanitation sectors.

Fowler emphasized that working conditions in the Palestinian territories have become "more dangerous" than ever before, noting that nearly 400 UNRWA staff members have been killed in the Gaza Strip.

K.T