Philippe Lazzarini

Philippe Lazzarini is the Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). He is newsworthy due to recent escalations in tensions between Israel and UNRWA, including the demolition of UNRWA's headquarters in East Jerusalem and raids on its facilities. These actions by Israel, including the removal of the UN flag, have been condemned by Lazzarini as blatant breaches of international law. The demolitions and raids come amid ongoing concerns and accusations regarding UNRWA's alleged ties to Hamas and the teaching of antisemitism in its schools, as highlighted in a recent documentary. Lazzarini's role is significant as he leads the agency responsible for providing humanitarian aid to Palestinian refugees, a mission increasingly challenged by Israeli actions and accusations against the organization.