UN relocates relief staff from Gaza
A ‘small number’ of UN workers caring for Palestinian refugees have been relocated from Israeli-occupied Gaza to Jerusalem in view of the deteriorating security situation.
Peter Hansen, the commissioner for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the New East (UNRWA), on Thursday said the relocation will allow the workers to continue to work “in the most effective and efficient manner”.
Hansen said the UN operations in Gaza face “unpredictability and insecurity” as they have to travel in and out of Gaza at Erez to carry out their humanitarian works.
He said he was seriously concerned about Israel’s military operations in Bait Hanun and the increased insecurity in the area.
Large team
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has 8300 Palestinians working for in Gaza. Hansen, however, did not specify how many workers were relocated to Jerusalem and whether they were international or local staff.
“They are doing an excellent job under enormous pressure and often in situations of great danger,” Hansen said.
“They deserve everyone’s support, and I call upon all elements of Palestinian society to facilitate their vital work,” he said.
Hansen said UNRWA will continue to operate fully and maintain all services for the Palestinian refugees in Gaza.