U.S. Expresses Concern and Pauses Funding to UNRWA Amid Allegations of Hamas Involvement in Terrorist Attack


The United States government has raised serious concerns and temporarily suspended additional funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) following allegations that twelve UNRWA employees may have been involved in a Hamas terrorist attack on Israel in October 2023. The State Department has emphasized the need for a thorough and swift investigation into these allegations and has welcomed the United Nations’ decision to conduct such an investigation.

High-Level Diplomatic Engagement and Calls for Accountability

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken engaged in direct communication with United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres on January 25, 2024, underscoring the urgency of a comprehensive investigation into the alleged involvement of UNRWA employees in the terrorist attack. Secretary Blinken conveyed the United States’ expectation that decisive action would be taken if the allegations were substantiated. The United Nations has announced a “comprehensive and independent” review of UNRWA, which has been welcomed by the United States.

Critical Role of UNRWA and the Need for Corrective Measures

The United States acknowledges the vital role that UNRWA plays in providing essential humanitarian assistance to Palestinian refugees, including food, medicine, shelter, and other life-saving support. The work of UNRWA has undoubtedly saved lives, and it is crucial that the agency addresses the allegations and takes appropriate corrective measures. This includes reviewing existing policies and procedures to ensure that such incidents do not occur in the future.

Engagement with Israel and Members of Congress

The United States has reached out to the Government of Israel to seek more information about the allegations and has briefed Members of Congress on the matter. The United States intends to maintain close communication with both the United Nations and the Government of Israel as the investigation unfolds.

Allegations and Temporary Pause in Funding

The allegations stem from a Hamas terrorist attack that took place on October 7, 2023. The United States is deeply troubled by these allegations and has temporarily paused additional funding for UNRWA while the investigations are ongoing. The United States emphasizes that this pause in funding is a temporary measure taken to allow for a thorough review of the allegations and the steps being taken by the United Nations to address them.

Commitment to a Thorough Investigation and Appropriate Action

The United States remains committed to supporting the Palestinian people and providing humanitarian assistance to those in need. However, the allegations against UNRWA employees are serious and require a thorough investigation. The United States will continue to monitor the situation closely and work with the United Nations and the Government of Israel to ensure that any allegations of misconduct are fully investigated and appropriate action is taken.

U.S. Department of State Statement on Allegations Against UNRWA Employees

January 26, 2024

The United States is deeply troubled by the allegations that twelve UNRWA employees may have been involved in the October 7 Hamas terrorist attack on Israel. The Department of State has temporarily paused additional funding for UNRWA while we review these allegations and the steps the United Nations is taking to address them.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres on January 25 to emphasize the necessity of a thorough and swift investigation of this matter. We welcome the decision to conduct such an investigation and Secretary General Guterres’ pledge to take decisive action to respond, should the allegations prove accurate. We also welcome the UN’s announcement of a “comprehensive and independent” review of UNRWA. There must be complete accountability for anyone who participated in the heinous attacks of October 7.

UNRWA plays a critical role in providing lifesaving assistance to Palestinians, including essential food, medicine, shelter, and other vital humanitarian support. Their work has saved lives, and it is important that UNRWA address these allegations and take any appropriate corrective measures, including reviewing its existing policies and procedures.

The United States has reached out to the Government of Israel to seek more information about these allegations, and we have briefed Members of Congress. We will remain in close contact with the United Nations and Government of Israel regarding this matter.