The Danish government has pledged an additional 10.2 million kroner ($1.4m/£1.12m) to the United Nations' Palestinian refugee agency (Unrwa), signaling its support for the agency amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. This development comes as the United States authorizes a "long-term" Israeli troop presence in southern Lebanon, where Israel seeks to maintain its forces in multiple posts until February 28. Meanwhile, a fragile ceasefire agreement in Gaza faces challenges, with Israeli hostages being released in small groups in exchange for Palestinians in Israeli custody.
Efforts to maintain the truce have resulted in the delivery of crucial humanitarian aid, including shelter materials such as tents and mobile houses. Despite these efforts, tensions remain high as Israel accuses Unrwa of providing cover for Hamas militants, prompting legislation to bar the agency from operating on Israeli soil starting January 30. The UN, however, has affirmed that Unrwa will continue its operations in all Palestinian territories.
“The increased Danish support is an unambiguous signal that we stand behind Unrwa’s work and mission. And that we support the organisation’s strengthened focus on internal reform and neutrality,” – Lars Løkke Rasmussen
Hamas has expressed its desire for the Gaza ceasefire agreement to hold, while Israel mobilizes military reservists in anticipation of a potential conflict resurgence if Hamas fails to meet a Saturday deadline to release further Israeli hostages. Mediators are actively pushing for full implementation of the deal, ensuring Israel adheres to a humanitarian protocol and resumes the exchange of hostages and prisoners on Saturday. Egyptian and Qatari mediators have pledged to "remove all hurdles" to ensure the ceasefire's success.
“promise … to put in place a humanitarian protocol starting from this morning” – AFP source
Israel has made it clear that hostilities will resume if Hamas does not release hostages as scheduled. This warning comes amidst comments from US President Donald Trump about potential chaos if Hamas does not comply with the release of "all" hostages.
“hell” would break loose if Hamas failed to release “all” the hostages by then – Donald Trump
In addition to international pressures, regional leaders like Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Jordan's King Abdullah have emphasized the importance of rebuilding Gaza without displacing Palestinians. Palestinian sources have indicated progress in efforts to salvage the ceasefire from its most severe crisis yet.