Philippe Lazzarini, the Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), reported in an interview that the agency has reduced its services in Gaza by 20% due to severe funding crises and ongoing political pressures. He emphasized that despite these challenges, UNRWA continues its essential services, including public health and education efforts to return children to school. This reduction comes amidst an acute financial crisis and a campaign of disinformation targeting the agency, alongside substantial operational pressures due to violence in the region.

Lazzarini highlighted the tragic toll that the conflict has had on agency personnel, noting that over 380 staff members have been killed since the outbreak of the war. He pointed out that these pressures, both practical and political, have hampered the organization’s ability to function effectively. Additionally, there is a notable decline in donor support as a result of a negative reputation campaign which has influenced the positions of several funding bodies, compounded by the United States' suspension of its previous financial support to the agency.

In light of these financial constraints, Lazzarini indicated that UNRWA has been forced to implement austerity measures, including a planned 20% cut in services starting 2025. He reiterated the agency's commitment to its mission in Gaza and the West Bank despite these overwhelming challenges, and stressed the need for urgent financial aid and political support to stabilize operations in the region and protect the well-being of Palestinian refugees.