UNRWA Funding Suspended Over Alleged Role in Hamas Attacks
Several countries, including Japan and Austria, have halted funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) following allegations of staff involvement in Hamas attacks on Israel.
The crisis deepens as more nations suspend payments, citing concerns over UNRWA’s alleged connection to the October 7 Hamas attacks.
The United States, United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy are among the countries that have suspended funding to UNRWA. This decision comes after the agency reportedly terminated several staff members implicated in the attacks, which saw Hamas gunmen infiltrate Israel, resulting in civilian casualties and hostages.
UNRWA spokesperson Juliette Touma described the allegations as “extremely serious” and emphasized the agency’s desperation amid growing humanitarian needs in Gaza.
With funding suspended, UNRWA warns that it may not be able to continue its operations beyond February, potentially impacting the largest humanitarian operation in Gaza.
While UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for a comprehensive investigation into the allegations, concerns remain over the humanitarian consequences of funding suspension.
UNRWA asserts that it has not yet seen the evidence but assures that the allegations are under investigation by the UN’s oversight office.
The crisis underscores the challenges facing Gaza’s humanitarian situation and raises questions about the implications of funding suspension on relief efforts in the region.
(Source: BBC)
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-68127544