Unraveling UNRWA

In the aftermath of the October 7 attacks and allegations of UNRWA staff involvement in kidnappings, the agency faced global fallout and Israel’s legislative move to sever ties amid Gaza’s deepening humanitarian crisis. Many donor nations temporarily suspended funding but later resumed support; the United States—the agency’s largest donor—has yet to reinstate its contributions.

The film traces UNRWA’s 75-year evolution, from its post-1948 origins as a temporary relief organization for Palestine refugees to its pivotal and often controversial role amidst the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It unravels new and surprising insights, offering an inside look at the only UN agency dedicated to a single group of people. With its three-year mandate expiring in December 2025, the UN General Assembly faces a crucial vote on whether to extend UNRWA's mission.