“We believe he should be allowed to visit UNRWA’s area of operations, including the Gaza Strip, and we intend to continue to work with the Israeli government to expedite the approval of all requested visas for UN and NGO workers,” State Department spokesman Vedanta Patel told reporters.
UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini said in Cairo on Monday that he intended to go to the southern Gaza city of Rafah, but was denied entry by Israel.
Israel accuses the UN agency of being a cover for Hamas and points out that several UNRWA staff were allegedly involved in the October 7 attack in Israel that triggered the military campaign.
The United States suspended funding to UNRWA and called for an investigation, but called the agency’s work invaluable.
V. Patel did not comment on whether the United States raised the question of Israel’s refusal to allow Ph. Lazzarini to enter the Gaza Strip.
“Governments in all regions must do whatever is necessary to allow humanitarian aid, which of course includes allowing the free movement of international personnel,” Patel said.
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2024-04-04 17:28:57
