UN raises alarm about funding concerns for Palestine

By Betul Yuruk

UNITED NATIONS (AA) - The UN warned Wednesday of a funding crisis for Palestinians to support basic services and social support, including emergency food assistance.

''Without new funding, World Food Program will suspend cash assistance to some 200,000 Palestinians next week,'' Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, Tor Wennesland, told the Security Council.

He said UNRWA -- the UN's Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees -- will not have the resources to deliver core services in September.

He warned of declining donor support and urged the international community to seek ways to increase support to Palestinians.

''We will face serious humanitarian and, potentially, security challenges. There is no time to spare,'' he said.