Jordan's Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi stated that the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) is a “vital source of hope for children in Gaza”.

During a joint press conference with UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini on Thursday, following a ministerial meeting co-hosted by Jordan and Sweden to garner support for the agency, Safadi emphasized Jordan's full backing for UNRWA and its mission.

Safadi highlighted Jordan's efforts to rally international assistance for Palestinians in Gaza, noting that residents are suffering from a severe shortage of food and medicine, which necessitates urgent humanitarian and logistical support.

He also accused the Israeli occupation of waging a political campaign against UNRWA, stressing that the agency's need is greater now than ever.

“The definition of a refugee is determined by international law, not by the Israeli occupation,” Safadi said, referencing His Majesty the King’s clear stance against the forced displacement of Palestinians into Jordan.

Safadi warned that if any country attempts to label UNRWA as a terrorist organization, the international community must not allow it. He underscored that the agency's noble work deserves full support, noting that the vaccination campaign against polio in Gaza would not have been possible without UNRWA's assistance.

He reaffirmed that Jordan will continue to engage with the United States and other nations to support UNRWA, emphasizing the importance of the agency’s ongoing work for Palestinian refugees.

The Foreign Minister concluded by stating that UNRWA is the most capable organization to assist the people of Gaza.