UNRWA staff cuts deepen in Gaza as Israel restricts critical aid access

Al JazeeraCenterEN 5 min read 100% complete by Maram HumaidJanuary 30, 2026 at 07:19 AM

AI Summary

long article 5 min

In January 2026, UNRWA, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, implemented severe austerity measures in Gaza due to a $220 million budget shortfall. These measures include the dismissal of 600 staff members, a 20% salary cut for local Gazan staff, and reduced working hours. The agency attributes the financial crisis to restricted aid access and funding shortfalls amid the ongoing conflict. The cuts threaten UNRWA's ability to maintain essential humanitarian programs and pay staff salaries. The situation is exacerbated by what is described as Israel's ongoing campaign against the agency, including accusations of complicity with armed groups. The cuts have impacted many, including teachers like Maryam Shaaban, displaced by the conflict.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Egypt 30% Jabalia ×240% Philippe Lazzarini 50% Gaza City 50% Maryam Shaaban ×260% UN ×270% Israel ×480% UNRWA ×690% Gaza ×690%

Keywords

unrwa 100% gaza 90% staff cuts 90% aid access 80% humanitarian crisis 70% austerity measures 60% financial shortfall 60% israeli war 50% palestinian refugees 50% salary cuts 40%