Wadephul: Germany not briefed on alleged secret talks over Ukraine peace plan - Germany breaks tradition by abstaining on UNRWA mandate renewal
Germany has abstained from voting on the renewal of UNRWA’s mandate for the first time. The decision reflects growing concerns over the agency’s operations in Palestinian territories. Officials cited allegations of ties between UNRWA staff and Hamas as a key factor in the shift.
The move marks a clear break from Germany’s past support for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees. Berlin had previously backed mandate renewals but chose abstention in 2024 to push for reforms. The government stressed that unacceptable cooperation between UNRWA and groups hostile to Israel played a role in its decision.
Germany’s abstention sends a direct signal to UNRWA about the need for reform. The government will monitor whether the agency implements meaningful changes in its Palestinian operations. Meanwhile, Berlin continues to back Ukraine while pressing for a diplomatic resolution to the conflict.
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