Palestinian PM affirms UNRWA's irreplaceable role in West Bank and Gaza during Brussels meetings

Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammed Mustafa has met with EU and UNRWA officials in Brussels, insisting that UNRWA cannot be replaced amid the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

• Mustafa met separately with EU Special Representative Christoph Bicho and UNRWA Acting Commissioner-General Christian Saunders in Brussels on Tuesday.
• Mustafa said UNRWA cannot be replaced or dispensed with, and its role must be preserved in the West Bank and Gaza due to the worsening humanitarian catastrophe.
• The officials discussed Israeli closures of Gaza crossings, aid shortages, prevention of reconstruction materials, and settler attacks and land seizures in the West Bank.
• They agreed to build on recent international meetings, expand European support mechanisms, support Palestinian election preparations, and continue pressure on Israel over tax revenues and restrictions.