76% of Israelis support removal of UNRWA, survey shows

Key findings of the survey reveal that only 5% of Israelis believe UNRWA adequately performs its duties.

A Palestinian woman takes part in a protest against possible reductions of the services and aid offered by United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), in front of UNRWA headquarters in Gaza City August 16, 2015. (photo credit: REUTERS/MOHAMMED SALEM)
A Palestinian woman takes part in a protest against possible reductions of the services and aid offered by United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), in front of UNRWA headquarters in Gaza City August 16, 2015.
(photo credit: REUTERS/MOHAMMED SALEM)

A recent survey conducted by Panel Project has unveiled stark disapproval among Israelis regarding the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). The survey, comprising 503 respondents from Jewish communities in Israel, highlights a prevalent belief that UNRWA fails to effectively fulfill its official role as a social service provider in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.

Key findings of the survey reveal that only 5% of Israelis believe UNRWA adequately performs its duties.

This sentiment is reinforced by revelations of UNRWA personnel’s involvement in the Hamas massacre and their affiliations with Islamic Jihad terrorists.

These revelations have led to 71% of Israelis viewing the recent events as reflective of UNRWA’s true nature, not mere anomalies.

The Israeli public’s dissatisfaction extends to their government’s handling of UNRWA’s conduct.

 UNRWA employees take part in a sit-in demonstration, according to them against anticipated austerity measures within the organization, in Amman, Jordan November 8, 2021. (credit: REUTERS/JEHAD SHELBAK)
UNRWA employees take part in a sit-in demonstration, according to them against anticipated austerity measures within the organization, in Amman, Jordan November 8, 2021. (credit: REUTERS/JEHAD SHELBAK)

Nearly half, 45%, assign a failing grade to the government’s management of the issue, a further 27% offer a barely passing grade. The survey delves deeper into the problematic aspects of UNRWA’s operations. For instance, 76% of Israelis support the removal of UNRWA from the Gaza Strip post-war, as proposed by the Foreign Affairs Ministry.

76% of Israelis support removal of UNRWA

Furthermore, while 85% hold Hamas primarily responsible for the current situation, this is followed by the Palestinian Authority, 79%, UNRWA, 75%, and Western countries which fund UNWRA, 69%.

Dr. Einat Wilf, a former MK, and researcher on the UNRWA issue, commented on the results, stating that UNRWA’s continued existence perpetuates the conflict and absolves Palestinian terrorist organizations of civil responsibility.

“Unfortunately, despite increasing public awareness of the harm associated with maintaining UNRWA, certain factions within the Israeli government and security establishment continue to view UNRWA as important, even if only in providing assistance,” Wilf said.

“However, a comprehensive understanding reveals that UNRWA serves two pivotal roles: 1) perpetuating the conflict by cultivating the notion of ‘perpetual refugees’ and advocating for ‘return,’ 2) absolving Palestinian terrorist organizations of any responsibility for the civilian population, enabling them to focus solely on attacking Israelis. Consequently, it becomes evident that there is no need to seek any replacement for the organization.”


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The survey indicates a significant shift in Israeli public opinion towards UNRWA, highlighting concerns over its role in regional conflicts and its impact on Israel’s security. This development may influence future policies and international relations in the region.