Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South-Central, Sinn Fein)

I apologise for being late to the meeting, but I had a question in the Chamber. I thank UNRWA for the incredible work that is being done. Mr. Whyte has detailed in his statement the number of UNRWA staff who have been killed or injured and the circumstances under which they must be working. It is very important work.

I might ask some questions about the situation on the ground, but I will first ask about the international context. In my own opinion, it was regrettable and a significant mistake on the part of Commissioner Kaja Kallas to give credence to and political cover for Israel in relation to the criticisms of UNRWA about a year ago or so. What has happened subsequently is appalling, with the weaponisation of aid. Does Mr. Whyte agree that western leaders, whether intentionally or unintentionally, gave political cover for the Israeli and United States Governments to proscribe UNRWA's activity in Gaza?