A New Documentary Revealing the Complex Role of UNRWA in the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

UNraveling UNRWA: A Comprehensive View of a Controversial Agency

A recent documentary by Zygote Films titled "UNraveling UNRWA" delves into the complex legacy of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Duki Dror, the film presents a unique exploration of UNRWA against the backdrop of ongoing tensions in the region and highlights its critical influence since its establishment in 1949.

The documentary provides viewers with an intricate narrative composed of testimonies from a diverse range of voices, including Palestinians, Arabs, Israelis, and international leaders. It features interviews with former UNRWA staff and Palestinian refugees, shedding light on the agency's multifaceted role and the controversies surrounding it. In a climate where global attention is focused on the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, especially in the aftermath of the alarming events of October 7, the film aims to stimulate a heated discourse around UNRWA's future, especially with a vital UN vote approaching in December on the renewal of its mandate.

Duki Dror, known for thought-provoking films like "Inside the Mossad" and "Lebanon—Borders of Blood," brings his signature style of morally nuanced storytelling to this project, encouraging audiences to question established narratives and look deeper into the historical context surrounding UNRWA. Dror's insight on the agency's humanitarian efforts juxtaposed with its political implications is particularly striking. He articulates that while UNRWA is revered for its humanitarian achievements among Palestinians, its role in promoting the right of return is seen as contributing to the perpetuation of conflict rather than fostering resolution.

The documentary features several key figures, including Scott Anderson, who served as the head of UNRWA operations between 2023 and 2025, and prominent experts like Niclas Herbst, a member of the European Parliament. They provide critical perspectives on UNRWA's operations and its impact on the Palestinian refugee population. Notably, James G. Lindsay, a former legal advisor for UNRWA, comments on the layers of complexity that arise from the prolonged refugee situation, highlighting how inadequate integration into surrounding societies fosters hostility and hinders progress towards peace.

"UNraveling UNRWA" doesn't shy away from presenting a complete image of the agency. It aims to acknowledge the good that has been accomplished while also addressing the political narratives that intertwine with its existence. This dual perspective invites viewers to reflect on the implications of keeping generations of Palestinians in refugee camps without integration prospects, ultimately cultivating resentment that can lead to violence.

The film has already garnered attention on the festival circuit, winning the Investigative Documentary Award at the 2025 Haifa International Film Festival. It has been scheduled for screenings at prestigious events such as the Paris Israeli Film Festival and the Toronto Jewish Film Festival, garnering significant interest due to its sensitive subject matter and timely relevance.

Upcoming exclusive screenings are planned, including notable locations like the Cinematheque in Tel Aviv and the Marlene Meyerson JCC in New York City, coinciding with significant dates in the political calendar. As the world watches how global powers navigate the complexities surrounding UNRWA, "UNraveling UNRWA" serves as a critical lens through which to perceive the agency's impact and the broader Israeli-Palestinian dynamic.

Reinhardt Beetz, co-CEO of Beetz Brothers Film Production, emphasizes that although UNRWA began as a humanitarian endeavor, its enduring function has become a point of contention. The film seeks to inform decision-makers who wrestle with the ongoing debate about whether UNRWA should continue, be reformed, or cease its operations altogether.

As audiences prepare to engage with this profound exploration of UNRWA, Dror's film promises to be a vital discourse starter in understanding the organization's role in shaping the ongoing conflict and the humanitarian crises surrounding it.