Statement: UNRWA Pledging Conference

Statement by H.E. Nikulás Hannigan

Deputy Permanent Representative of Iceland to the United Nations

UNRWA Pledging Conference

Trusteeship Council Chamber

30 June 2026

Mr. Secretary General, Mr. Saunders, excellencies, distinguished colleagues,

Let me begin by extending our deepest condolences to the families and colleagues of UNRWA staff who have lost their lives. We reaffirm our collective responsibility to ensure that international law, including international humanitarian law is respected.

Iceland has been a regular donor of UNRWA since the early 2000s and remains fully committed to contributing to alleviating the plight of Palestinian refugees. Iceland recognised the State of Palestine in 2011 and has since been a strong advocate for its future. The Two-State Solution remains the only viable path to sustainable peace and security.

The situation in Gaza remains unacceptable. Humanitarian access is severely restricted, with Israel continuing to impede the delivery of much needed aid and the work of UN agencies and key international non-governmental organizations. The International Court of Justice’s advisory opinion makes clear that UNRWA must be a part of the humanitarian effort. It should also be noted that earlier this year Iceland intervened in South Africa’s case against Israel before that same court.

It is essential that the most vulnerable receive the assistance they need. Children have lost years of schooling, and we must work to restore their futures. We must also be mindful of gender perspectives and the need to include, support, and empower women and girls, as we work to restore and rebuild.

Iceland welcomes the appointment of Mr. Saunders at this exceptionally difficult time for UNRWA, when both strong and courageous stewardship is needed. The Agency remains central to the stabilization and socio-economic development in Palestine and the wider region. There is simply no other organization or agency that does what UNRWA delivers.

Iceland has a framework agreement with UNRWA which runs until 2028, providing timely, predictable and flexible core funding. Building on that, we raised our core contribution this year by 40 million Icelandic Krona, to a total of 150 million, in addition to an international staff secondment to UNRWA HQ.

Today, I am pleased to announce an additional core contribution in the amount of 60 million Icelandic Krona. Which brings the total amount this year to almost two million US Dollars.

I would like to close by reaffirming our unwavering support for UNRWA and the essential role it plays in delivering life-saving services to Palestinians. Iceland is and will remain a trusted partner of UNRWA.

Thank you