Residents of Gaza have expressed frustration and disappointment over the recent actions of Japan and other countries to suspend financial support for the UNRWA. This decision came after allegations surfaced regarding twelve UNRWA employees potentially being associated with Hamas, the Palestinian militant group responsible for a surprise attack on Israel in October last year. Despite the United Nations dismissing nine of these employees and continuing investigations, the repercussions of this situation have sparked concerns among the two million civilians in Gaza who rely on UNRWA's aid for their daily existence.

The impact of the funding suspension to UNRWA has been deeply felt by locals in Gaza, where critical humanitarian conditions prevail. The inability of UNRWA to meet all essential requirements to support the vulnerable population in February has heightened tensions and fears among the residents who are already facing catastrophic circumstances. A 33-year-old man who relocated within Gaza expressed his frustration at the suspension of contributions by countries like Japan, emphasizing that the entire Gaza population should not face consequences for the actions of a few individuals.

The situation has led to a shift in perception towards countries like Japan, which were previously seen as sympathetic and supportive of Gaza's residents. The fear of aid coming to a halt has intensified, with some residents expressing a sentiment that death would be preferable to the hunger and suffering that would ensue if UNRWA assistance were to cease. Gaza's dependency on UNRWA for survival underscores the urgency of addressing funding issues to prevent a humanitarian crisis in the region.