By Gabriel Ani
Stenbock House, November 3, 2023 – The Estonian government unanimously approved a humanitarian aid package of 240,000 euros to address the ongoing crisis in the Middle East. Prime Minister Kaja Kallas emphasized the importance of supporting both Israel and the civilians of Gaza.
In her statement, Prime Minister Kallas expressed concern over the situation and condemned the actions of Hamas, stating, “Hamas is waging a ruthless campaign of terror with zero regard for human life, including the lives of Palestinians.” She acknowledged Israel’s right to self-defense but urged that it be done in a manner consistent with international law and with a focus on sparing innocent lives.
Prime Minister Kallas highlighted the urgency of delivering humanitarian aid to those in need without obstacles. She announced Estonia’s commitment to supporting the Palestinian people through UN organizations while also providing medical aid to Israel.
Regarding regional cooperation, the Prime Minister stressed the need for countries in the Middle East and international partners to work together to prevent the spread of the conflict, recognizing that radicalization poses a threat to all. She underlined the importance of ending violence and tension in the region, stating, “Bringing the violence and tension to an end is in the interests of the Israelis, the Palestinians, the Middle East, and the world as a whole.”
Prime Minister Kallas also pointed out the geopolitical implications, stating, “Inciting a crisis in the region benefits no one other than those interested in drawing our attention away from other issues and undermining our unity. That is to say it is useful to those seeking to distract the free world from its support for Ukraine. It is all the more important then that we maintain a united front and wide-ranging support for the Ukrainians.”
The United Nations and various organizations have called on countries to increase their humanitarian aid contributions. Estonia has consistently supported the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) and recently provided 80,000 euros in support.
Today, the government approved a proposal by Minister of Foreign Affairs Margus Tsahkna and Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur to allocate 240,000 euros for medical and humanitarian aid in the crisis-affected Middle East region, benefiting both Israeli and Gazan civilians. This assistance will also be directed to the UNRWA, the World Food Programme (WFP), and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
