Some want to dismantle UNRWA to prevent creation of Palestinian state — agency chief

Some countries want to dismantle the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) for political reasons, which could undermine efforts to create a Palestinian state, UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini told TASS in am exclusive interview.

"I clearly brought on the attention of the [UN] Member States the fact that we have to push back because the real intention to dismantle the agency is of a political nature, which could in the future undermine effort leading to a political solution and to a true Palestinian state solution," he said.

According to the agency's chief, more than 80% of Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza believe that if UNRWA is dissolved, it will not be possible to resolve the Palestinian-Israeli issue through the creation of two states.