Jewish Dems Oppose Trump’s Cuts in Palestinian Aid, UNRWA Defunding

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Jewish Democratic Council of America (JDCA) opposes the Trump administration’s recently announced reduction in aid to the Palestinian Authority (PA) and defunding of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).

These irresponsible cuts would imperil the security of Israel and the wellbeing of millions of Palestinians, especially children. These cuts were aimed at humanitarian programs that have saved lives, as well as programs aimed at improving Palestinian governance. They were announced without a clear strategy and demonstrate – yet again – that President Trump is reckless in his diplomacy and foreign policy, especially when it comes to the Middle East.

While the PA is certainly flawed, it performs vital functions of governance, including maintaining an important security partnership with Israel. Meanwhile, UNRWA – which requires institutional reform – provides essential humanitarian assistance, health programs, and education to millions of Palestinians, the Israeli government and security establishment have historically supported U.S. assistance to the PA and UNRWA, because both have played an important role helping to stabilize and secure Israel’s borders with Gaza and the West Bank.

These cuts will destabilize an already weak Palestinian government, to the potential detriment of the United States and Israel. Only Hamas and other terrorists win in such an equation.

We are deeply concerned that the Trump administration’s decision to cut this funding will encourage Palestinian extremism and endanger lives on both sides, and we urge the administration to reconsider its dangerous decision.