UNRWA Funding Cut Amid Terror Allegations

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) for Palestine Refugees in the Near East is facing a funding crisis after being accused of involvement in the October 7 terror attacks in Israel. The United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and other Western powers have decided to cut funding following allegations against 12 UNRWA employees.

The United States, joined by key Western allies such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, Italy, Australia, Finland, Netherlands, and Switzerland, has suspended funding pending a United Nations investigation into the alleged involvement of UNRWA members in the Hamas terrorist attack. This widespread decision comes as a response to the accusations that have already led to the termination of several UNRWA staffers.

Former Trump administration National Security Council advisor Richard Goldberg sees the U.S. decision as a strategic move ahead of potential congressional funding cuts. Despite the temporary pause in additional funding, the U.S. remains a significant contributor to UNRWA, with funds exceeding $1 billion during President Biden’s term.

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Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant applauds the U.S. decision, calling it an “important step in holding UNRWA accountable.” Gallant accuses at least a dozen UNRWA employees of participating in the October 7 attack, emphasizing the need for accountability and describing them as ‘humanitarian workers’ with blood on their hands.

UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini expresses shock at the accusations and assures the international community that any UNRWA employee involved in acts of terror will be held accountable, potentially through criminal prosecution. Israeli intelligence presented the accusations to the UN, prompting a closer examination of the alleged involvement of UNRWA staff in the terrorist attack.