Norway has announced a contribution of USD 24.5 million (NOK 275 million) to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) to support its operations in Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan. The Norwegian government emphasized the growing humanitarian needs in Gaza and the broader region, particularly in light of new Israeli laws set to take effect on 30 January which could restrict UNRWA’s ability to operate in Palestine.
Norwegian officials stressed the importance of international support for UNRWA to ensure the continuation of essential services, including education, healthcare, and food assistance for Palestine refugees. They also highlighted Norway’s role in a UN General Assembly resolution seeking clarification from the International Court of Justice on Israel’s legal obligations regarding humanitarian aid under international law. UNRWA, established in 1949, plays a key role in delivering aid, and Norwegian officials warned that its potential inability to operate in Palestine could have significant humanitarian and regional stability implications.