The Middle East has long been a region of unrest, and in October 2023, this tension escalated dramatically. Israel accused UNRWA, a UN Palestinian aid agency, of involvement in a deadly Hamas-led attack. The assault resulted in approximately 1,200 fatalities and over 200 hostages. Israel's retaliation caused over 30,000 casualties and displaced about 80% of Gaza's population.
In November, a ray of hope appeared amidst the destruction. Israel and Hamas negotiated the release of about 110 hostages, with discussions for a new cease-fire and further hostage releases ongoing. However, the EU, startled by the accusations against UNRWA, temporarily halted payments to the agency. In a show of resilience, they plan to resume payments with a €50 million ($54 million) contribution, followed by two €32 million installments later in the year.
The allegations against UNRWA have prompted investigations by the UN and EU. UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini strongly denies involvement in the attacks. In addition, the European Commission has pledged an extra €68 million in emergency aid for Palestinians in Gaza, bringing the total humanitarian aid to €275 million for the year.
The EU, the third-largest donor to UNRWA, finds itself at a crossroads. The US and Germany, the top two donors, suspended their funding earlier in January. EU member states are divided in their views on the Gaza situation. Germany supports Israel's right to self-defense, while Spain and Ireland criticize Israel's military campaign.
The humanitarian crisis was highlighted when over 100 Palestinians were killed attempting to reach an aid convoy. Israeli officials attribute most deaths to a stampede, but Gazan health officials reported gunshot wounds. This incident has drawn global condemnation, with countries including Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan criticizing Israeli forces. High-ranking officials such as the EU's foreign policy chief, Josep Borell, and UN Secretary-General António Guterres also condemned the incident. France, Italy, and Germany have called for an independent investigation.
The situation in Gaza remains critical. The UN reported that assisting Gaza's 2.3 million people is nearly impossible due to ongoing violence. Israeli airstrikes targeting police officers guarding aid trucks have endangered humanitarian workers. A quarter of Gaza’s population, roughly 576,000 people, are on the brink of famine.
In the midst of the crisis, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant called for a law requiring ultra-Orthodox Jews to serve in the military. With about 60,000 ultra-Orthodox males of military age currently not serving, and 300,000 reservists mobilised following the October attack, Israel's military structure may be on the verge of a significant shift.
Further complicating the situation, Israel has ceased granting visas for international humanitarian workers, according to the Association of International Development Agencies (AIDA). This has hindered efforts to deliver food and other essential supplies to Gaza, affecting more than 150 jobs.
In summary, the Middle East continues to be a region of instability, with a complex narrative of allegations, attacks, and aid. As the world watches, there is a collective hope for a resolution that will bring peace and stability to this troubled region.
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