Events subsequent to the recent peace initiative by the United States. are indicative of inadequacies in our policy in the Middle East. We. as well as virtually every party to the conflict. have failed to recognize the reality of the Palestinians and the claim they have to participate in any settlement. The core of the present dilemma facing the world in the Middle East is the Palestinian refugee. And irrespective of ones perspective on their claim to lands within Israel and Israeli occupied territory. it should be recognized by all that the solution to their problems will be the primary factor in bringing a lasting peace to the area. An essential determinant in the hostility felt by the Palestinians is the refugee camps. Responsibility for meeting the health. educational. and medical needs in these camps is with the United Nations Relief and World AgencyUNRWAbut it depends on its funding from the member countries of the United Nations. As a result of the violent conflict between Palestinian guerrillas and Jordanian troops. the state of the refugee camps has deteriorated and UNRWA faces a $6 million deficit. If UNRWAs budgetary needs are not meet. the basic needs of the refugees will not be filled. the frustration in the area will be compounded. and the chances for peace will be diminished. Mr. President. it is with a profound sense of urgency that I commend to my colleagues a statement by Laurence Michelmore. the CommissionerGeneral of UNRWA. and urge that the United States help alleviate the budgetary pressure UNRWA is facing.
Keywords matched
refugee refugees