Ireland announces €42m Palestine aid package as McEntee visits Rafah

The money will aid communities in Gaza and the West Bank.

The announcement came from Minister for Foreign Affairs, Helen McEntee visited the Rafah crossing between Egypt and Gaza yesterday.

This funding includes €20 million towards the core funding of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNWRA) as well as €2 million to the Egypt and Palestinian Red Crescent societies. 

The remaining funds are set to be allocated on a case-by-case basis throughout the coming year.

Upon announcing the aid, Minister McEntee said: “The humanitarian and human rights situation across Gaza and the West Bank remains incredibly stark.

“This funding from Ireland will help to provide food, shelter, water, sanitation, health and education for people across Palestine. It will be primarily delivered through our UN partners, particularly UNRWA.

“The funding announced today demonstrates Ireland’s continued support for the people of Palestine and our commitment to supporting UN partners providing vital aid and assistance.”

The Minister will visit Jordan today, where she is expected to take part in a series of political engagements.

Furthermore, she will meet partner organisations delivering support to Palestinian and Syrian refugees and host communities across Jordan.