I have three urgent requests to prevent this devastating outcome:

First, I ask that Member States act to prevent the implementation of the legislation against UNRWA.

Changes to UNRWA’s mandate are the prerogative of the General Assembly, not individual Member States.

Second, I ask that Member States ensure that any plan for a political transition delineates UNRWA’s role.

The Agency must progressively conclude its mandate within the framework of a political solution, and hand over its services to an empowered Palestinian administration.

Finally, I ask that Member States maintain funding to UNRWA, and do not withhold or divert funds on the assumption that the Agency can no longer operate.

The cost of providing critical services, including education and healthcare, during a transition will be immense.

I must also alert Member States that abruptly dismantling the Agency will cost more than half a billion dollars in staff separation indemnities alone.