UNRWA Officials Urge Congress to Oppose Terror Designation Threat

United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) officials recently mobilized efforts to persuade U.S. congressional staffers against a potential designation of their organization as a foreign terrorist entity by the Trump administration. During a video conference on December 17, 2023, UNRWA representatives discussed the agency’s humanitarian operations in Gaza and the West Bank, emphasizing the importance of their work amidst ongoing political challenges.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated the U.S. government’s openness to collaborating with the United Nations, albeit not with UNRWA. This stance has raised concerns among agency officials, who fear that a terrorist designation would severely undermine their ability to deliver essential services.

Executive Director of UNRWA USA, Mara Kronenfeld, initiated the briefing by asserting that UNRWA continues to operate on the ground, despite what she described as “the Netanyahu government’s insidious efforts” to obstruct its humanitarian mission. The meeting’s agenda aimed to clarify the implications of the proposed designation and to rally congressional support for UNRWA’s ongoing operations.

During the briefing, Bill Deere, UNRWA’s director in Washington, acknowledged reports suggesting that the Trump administration was considering the designation. He characterized such a move as “unprecedented” for a UN agency and “unwarranted,” arguing that four independent investigations have countered allegations against UNRWA’s workforce. Deere encouraged congressional offices to express their opposition vigorously, warning that the ramifications could extend beyond UNRWA, potentially affecting the broader UN system.

The discussion also highlighted the challenges faced by UNRWA in executing its mission in the region. Sam Rose, director of UNRWA affairs in Gaza, explained that international staff could not enter Gaza due to Israeli legislation, forcing operations to be managed remotely. Nevertheless, he emphasized that essential services, including primary healthcare, education, and sanitation, have not ceased, asserting that UNRWA facilities remain operational as emergency shelters.

Amidst ongoing political discourse, officials also highlighted UNRWA’s role in providing cash assistance and job creation programs. Rose noted that the agency is capable of operating efficiently, even under restrictions, and pointed out that UNRWA continues to receive fuel through indirect channels, crucial for maintaining essential services.

While detailing the agency’s efforts, Roland Friedrich, director of UNRWA affairs in the West Bank, elaborated on the support provided to hundreds of thousands of Palestinian refugees. This includes cash assistance, food vouchers, and social protection payments, all of which play a stabilizing role across the region.

The meeting further sought to inform congressional staff about legislative actions that could support UNRWA’s funding. Kronenfeld urged attendees to champion the proposed UNRWA Funding Emergency Restoration Act of 2025, recalling that the United States was historically the agency’s largest donor before the funding halt in 2024.

Deere reiterated the critical role UNRWA plays in delivering healthcare, education, and other essential services in Gaza and the West Bank. “In Gaza, UNRWA medical personnel deliver 40 percent of primary healthcare and are essential for distributing water and promoting public health initiatives,” he stated, underscoring the agency’s significance amidst ongoing challenges.

Despite the ongoing tensions, UNRWA officials remain committed to maintaining their operations. They continue to navigate the complex landscape of humanitarian aid in a region marked by conflict and political strife. As discussions progress, the agency’s future remains uncertain, but its leadership is determined to advocate for the vital services it provides to vulnerable populations.