Published on: 2025-03-23

Intelligence Report: Its time to replace UNRWA A credible alternative is needed in Gaza – The Jerusalem Post

1. BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front)

The decision by Israel to terminate the operations of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has sparked international concern. The UN Office for Project Services (UNOP) is proposed as a viable alternative to assume responsibility for humanitarian services in Gaza. This transition aims to address issues of politicization and infiltration by terrorist organizations within UNRWA, ensuring a more transparent and apolitical delivery of aid.

2. Detailed Analysis

The following structured analytic techniques have been applied for this analysis:

General Analysis

The termination of UNRWA’s operations is driven by documented affiliations of its employees with groups such as Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. This has led to a loss of donor confidence and subsequent withdrawal of funding from countries like the United States, Canada, and the European Union. The UNOP has demonstrated capability in filling the humanitarian gap left by UNRWA, delivering essential services such as fuel for hospitals and bakeries in Gaza.

3. Implications and Strategic Risks

The transition from UNRWA to UNOP carries several implications:

• Potential for increased regional stability by removing terrorist exploitation of humanitarian institutions.
• Enhanced transparency and accountability in aid delivery, potentially restoring donor confidence.
• Risk of short-term humanitarian challenges during the transition period, though initial fears of a catastrophe have been mitigated by UNOP’s effective response.

4. Recommendations and Outlook

Recommendations:

• Encourage continued support and funding for UNOP to ensure uninterrupted humanitarian aid in Gaza.
• Implement robust monitoring mechanisms to ensure transparency and accountability in aid distribution.
• Facilitate diplomatic efforts to communicate the benefits of this transition to international stakeholders.

Outlook:

Best-case scenario: UNOP successfully replaces UNRWA, leading to improved humanitarian conditions and reduced political tensions in Gaza.
Worst-case scenario: Disruptions in aid delivery exacerbate humanitarian challenges, leading to increased regional instability.
Most likely outcome: UNOP continues to effectively manage humanitarian services, gradually restoring international confidence and support.

5. Key Individuals and Entities

The report mentions significant individuals such as Batya Levinthal, Mohamed Hadid, Bella Hadid, Gigi Hadid, Zahwa Arafat, and Yasser Arafat. Organizations include UNRWA, UNOP, and the Jerusalem Post.