By Manal Abdel Fattah
The German government’s special envoy for humanitarian aid in the Near and Middle East, Deike Potzel, said on her fifth visit to Egypt that while the German government sees the suffering of the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, Germany has increased its humanitarian aid, most recently on January 9, when it provided additional support of 8 Millions of euros.
She added, during her presence in Cairo, that with this support, the total aid provided to the Palestinian territories by the German government has risen to 211 million euros, including 138 million euros in additional funding since October 7, and Germany has become the largest contributor to UNRWA during the past five years.
She pointed out that the German Foreign Ministry is working with the United Nations and experienced international organizations to deliver the necessary aid to the residents of Gaza. Through the humanitarian aid approved by Germany, organizations can deliver basic foodstuffs, medical care and hygiene products to Gaza.
She stressed that the international community is very aware of what is happening in the Gaza Strip, and many countries have provided humanitarian support, whether from the region or outside it, and we appreciate everyone who contributed to those efforts.
She added: But the situation is dangerous and requires greater effort to provide safe corridors for humanitarian aid to enter, as well as safe corridors for it to be delivered to civilians inside the Gaza Strip, which takes a very long time.
Regarding UNRWA, the Special Envoy said: We are aware of the important role of UNRWA for the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, and we appreciate its vital role in providing aid to cover the basic needs of the Palestinian population. Therefore, Germany provided UNRWA in the last year with support worth 206 million euros, including 83 million euros. For Gaza alone.
She added that since October 7, Germany has provided humanitarian aid through UNRWA to fund vital necessities such as water, food, shelter, hygiene and sanitation facilities, in addition to medical supplies for Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, and we are very saddened by the targeting of 150 of its employees during their work in Gaza.
She continued: Germany has decided to suspend current and future funding for UNRWA, until the investigations are completed in light of the accusations against its employees, and the results are released. However, there are in no way new funding decisions from Germany during the coming period.
Potzel indicated that Germany has not yet drawn up a plan for any external financial aid for this year because the budget has not yet been decided, with regard to the Middle East region. However, one of our priorities will be to support the activity of United Nations agencies.
She continued: Therefore, we will wait for the results of the investigations of UNRWA and the Secretary-General of the United Nations regarding the accusations that were raised recently. However, I confirm that we have not abandoned UNRWA, but we will consider providing additional support to UNRWA in light of the results of these investigations.
