The United States said Wednesday it was restoring assistance to the Palestinians severed under former president Donald Trump with an announcement of $235 million.
The UN agency for Palestinian refugees, Unrwa, which has been in financial difficulties since losing $360 million in US financing in 2018, will receive two thirds of the proceeds.
Regarding the long-stalled peace negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians, Mr. Biden seeks to “restore credible engagement”.
Leaders of the Palestinian people charged that Mr. Trump has a strong tilt in favor of Israel.
They disapproved of a peace proposal he presented the previous year, which called for Jerusalem to remain Israel’s “undivided capital” and for Israeli authority to be acknowledged over Jewish communities in the Jordan Valley and the occupied West Bank.
During the Middle East War in 1967, Israel invaded the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Although Israel contests this, the majority of the international community believes that the settlements are unlawful under international law.
“Could not be more pleased that we will partner with the United States to provide critical assistance to some of the most vulnerable refugees across the Middle East,” stated Unrwa Commissioner General Philippe Lazzarini.
According to Israel’s foreign ministry, the Unrwa “perpetuates the conflict and does not contribute to its resolution” in its current form. It further stated that “significant and necessary changes in the nature, goals, and conduct of the organization” should go hand in hand with the renewal of US financing.
The government of US President Joe Biden intends to reimburse some of the cash that Donald Trump withheld from the Palestinians, totaling $235 million (£171 million).
The UN agency for Palestinian refugees, Unrwa, which has been in financial difficulties since losing $360 million in US financing in 2018, will receive two thirds of the proceeds.
Regarding the long-stalled peace negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians, Mr. Biden seeks to “restore credible engagement”.
Leaders of the Palestinian people charged that Mr. Trump has a strong tilt in favor of Israel.
They disapproved of a peace proposal he presented the previous year, which called for Jerusalem to remain Israel’s “undivided capital” and for Israeli authority to be acknowledged over Jewish communities in the Jordan Valley and the occupied West Bank.
