Standing alongside Biden, Jordan king urges support for UNRWA, whose US funding has been halted

Jacob Magid is The Times of Israel's US bureau chief

US President Joe Biden arrives with Jordan's King Abdullah II to speak in the Cross Hall of the White House, Monday, Feb. 12, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)
US President Joe Biden arrives with Jordan's King Abdullah II to speak in the Cross Hall of the White House, Monday, Feb. 12, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

Standing alongside the president of the United States, which suspended its funding to UNRWA amid allegations that 12 employees participated in the October 7 terror onslaught, Jordan’s King Abdullah urges continued support for the UN relief agency for Palestinian refugees.

“No other UN agency can do what UNRWA is doing, helping the people of Gaza through this humanitarian catastrophe,” he says.

“Its work in other areas of operation, especially in Jordan, where 2.3 million are registered is also vital,” the Hashemite leader said. “It is imperative that UNRWA continues to receive the support it needs to carry out its mandate.”

He appears to take aim at Israel for restricting aid going into Gaza. “Restrictions on vital relief aid and medical items are leading to inhumane conditions.”

Israel says it approves all shipments, save for items that could pose a security risk.

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