Minister Helen McEntee announces €42 million in aid for Palestine

Ireland has committed to providing €42 million in humanitarian aid to the people of Palestine throughout 2026, increasing its funding from the €36 million given last year.

Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister Helen McEntee made the announcement during a visit near the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza, where she is observing relief operations. The funding will be used to help those affected in both Gaza and the West Bank.

A significant portion of the aid (€20 million) will be used as core funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), which provides essential services such as education, healthcare and shelter to Palestinian refugees. An additional €2 million will go to support the work of the Egyptian and Palestinian Red Crescent Societies, with the rest of the money to be distributed across the year.

"The funding announced today demonstrates Ireland's continued support for the people of Palestine and our commitment to supporting UN partners providing vital aid and assistance," said McEntee.

McEntee emphasised that the humanitarian and human rights situation across Gaza and the West Bank remains severe, with overcrowding, damaged infrastructure and limited access to clean water and medical care continuing to endanger civilian lives.

"This funding from Ireland will help to provide food, shelter, water, sanitation, health and education for people across Palestine," said McEntee. "It will be primarily delivered through our UN partners, particularly UNRWA."

McEntee also reiterated her concern over Israel's decision to stop water, electricity and communications to UNRWA facilities.

“UNRWA’s operations must be facilitated in line with the findings of the International Court of Justice,” the minister said.

Minister of State for International Development Neale Richmond said by the end of 2026, Ireland’s total support for Palestinian aid since early 2023 is expected to reach around €144 million. In total, the EU has provided €1.6 billion since 2023.

McEntee will visit Jordan today, where she will look at the work of organisations working with Palestinian and Syrian refugees and host communities in Jordan.