Canada has provided the Palestinian refugees a humanitarian assistance package of $90 million via the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) as “part of the path toward peace and prosperity in the Middle East,” according to the Canadian government.

The government said in a press release that Karina Gould, the Minister of International Development, announced Canada’s continued support of up to $90 million over 3 years for Palestinian refugees, as the support will help respond to the rising needs of vulnerable Palestinian refugees in UNRWA’s five areas of operation (the West Bank, Gaza Strip, Syria, Lebanon and Jordan).”

"The needs of Palestinian refugees are undeniable, especially during a global pandemic. They face high rates of poverty, food insecurity and unemployment," Gould said.

"Canada’s continued support for UNRWA builds upon the country’s long-standing commitment to Palestinians while also contributing to stability in the region,” she added.

Moreover, the minister highlighted that Canada’s funding will also reinforce UNRWA’s ongoing efforts to uphold UN values and humanitarian principles.

UNRWA now is facing one of its most difficult times since it started operations in 1949 by providing assistance to the 750,000 Palestinians who forcibly displaced from their homes in 1048.