On January 28, 2024, amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. The international community responded to the situation after nine countries suspended their funding for the UNRWA.
The United Nations Secretary-General has called on nine countries, including the U.S., to resume funding for an agency providing aid in the Gaza Strip. This request follows accusations that a dozen employees of the agency took part in the Hamas attack on Israel.
On October 7, Hamas launched an unexpected attack on Israel, causing around 1,200 casualties and the capture of approximately 240 hostages, as reported by The Associated Press. In retaliation, Israel conducted extensive airstrikes and a ground offensive in Gaza. Moreover, Israel halted the supply of water, fuel, and electricity to the Palestinian territory, claiming these resources were being used by Hamas. International organizations have expressed concerns about the worsening humanitarian situation in the region.
Since then, the United Nations Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) has been providing assistance to the region.
On Thursday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced the suspension of funding for the UNRWA, stating that he had informed the U.N. This decision was made after Israel claimed to have received “specific information” indicating that some individuals working for the agency were involved in the Hamas attack.
The United State Department mentioned that 12 employees faced accusations. UNRWA, with 13,000 employees in Gaza, mostly Palestinians, is the organization in question.
Matthew Miller, spokesperson for the United State Department of State, stated they have temporarily halted additional funding for UNRWA. This decision is pending a review of the allegations and the actions taken by the United Nations to address them.
The Secretary-General of the United Nations has issued a cautionary message to the United States and eight other nations concerning their actions in obstructing aid to Gaza.
Following this, eight other countries, including Britain, Germany, and Italy, also took similar measures.
On Friday, the UN initiated an inquiry into some of its employees.
On Sunday, UN Secretary-General António Guterres appealed to countries to continue supporting UNRWA’s operations. He emphasized that those involved in humanitarian work in the region should not face negative consequences due to this situation.
The spokesperson mentioned, “The United Nations is taking swift action in response to the very serious allegations against some U.N. Relief and Works Agency staff members. An investigation by the U.N.’s Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) was immediately activated.”
Nine out of the 12 individuals involved were promptly identified and terminated by UNRWA’s head, Philippe Lazzarini. Unfortunately, one person has passed away, and efforts are underway to establish the identities of the remaining two.
“If any U.N. worker is involved in wrongdoing, they will face consequences, possibly through legal action. The organization is prepared to collaborate with authorities for the prosecution of these individuals, following established procedures.
“UNRWA had previously announced a comprehensive and independent review of the organization on January 17.
“Currently, 2 million people in Gaza rely on crucial assistance from UNRWA every day. However, the current funding for UNRWA is insufficient to meet all their needs in February. While I acknowledge the concerns—these accusations were distressing—I urge the governments that have suspended their contributions to ensure, at the very least, the continued support of UNRWA’s operations for those in need.”
The reported wrongful actions of certain UNRWA staff members must lead to consequences. However, the many men and women working for UNRWA in challenging and risky situations should not be unfairly punished. It’s vital to continue providing assistance to the people who are in desperate need of help.