MALAYSIA WELCOMES FINAL REPORT BY INDEPENDENT REVIEW GROUP ON UNRWA

MALAYSIA WELCOMES FINAL REPORT BY INDEPENDENT REVIEW GROUP ON UNRWA

Malaysia welcomes the findings of the Final Report for the United Nations Secretary-General by the "Independent Review of Mechanisms and Procedures to Ensure Adherence by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) to the Humanitarian Principle of Neutrality".

The report unequivocally rejects Israel's baseless accusations of United Nations staff being involved with terrorist organisations.

The continued propagation of lies, deceit and misrepresentation by Israel's propaganda machinery constitute a grave offence against human decency. Israel's false accusation has not only tarnished the Agency's reputation, but also undermined the valuable contribution of donor countries, unjustly impeding their support without valid grounds.

Malaysia welcomes the decision by a number of countries to resume their contribution to UNRWA, and urges others that have suspended their contribution to do the same immediately to support this Agency, which has become a vital life line for the besieged Palestinians.

It is imperative for nations to re-evaluate their priorities with Israel, given its despicable actions at the expense of the Palestinian people.

The Independent Review Group was established by the UN Secretary-General on 5 February 2024 to assess UNRWA's neutrality following allegations by Israel of the involvement of UNRWA's staff in the 7 October 2023 attacks.

PUTRAJAYA

24 April 2024