U.S. Temporarily Pauses Funding for UNRWA Amid Allegations of Employee Involvement in Hamas Attack
Washington, D.C. – The United States has temporarily paused additional funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) while it reviews allegations that twelve UNRWA employees may have been involved in the October 7 Hamas terrorist attack on Israel.
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. The U.S. welcomes the decision to conduct such an investigation and Secretary General Guterres’ pledge to take decisive action if the allegations prove accurate.
The U.S. also welcomes 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,” State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said in a statement.
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,” Price said.
Background:
In October 2023, a Hamas terrorist attack on Israel resulted in numerous casualties and raised serious concerns about the potential involvement of United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) employees. The United States, as a major contributor to UNRWA’s funding, expressed deep concern over these allegations and took immediate action to address the situation.
Allegations against UNRWA Employees:
The United States received credible information suggesting that twelve UNRWA employees might have been involved in the Hamas terrorist attack on October 7, 2023. These allegations raised significant questions about the neutrality and integrity of UNRWA’s operations and prompted the United States to take decisive action.
U.S. Response:
In response to the allegations, the United States temporarily paused additional funding for UNRWA. This decision was made to allow time for a thorough investigation into the matter and to assess the steps taken by the United Nations to address the allegations.
Discussions with the United Nations:
U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken engaged in discussions with United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres on January 25, 2024, to emphasize the need for a comprehensive and swift investigation into the allegations. Secretary Blinken also stressed the importance of decisive action by the United Nations should the allegations prove accurate.
UN’s Response:
The United Nations responded positively to the concerns raised by the United States. Secretary General Guterres pledged to conduct a thorough investigation and take appropriate action based on the findings. The UN also announced a “comprehensive and independent” review of UNRWA to address the allegations and strengthen the agency’s accountability and transparency.
U.S. Engagement with Israel:
The United States reached out to the Government of Israel to seek more information about the allegations and to coordinate efforts in addressing the situation. The U.S. also briefed Members of Congress on the matter and maintained close contact with both the United Nations and the Israeli government throughout the process.
UNRWA’s Role in Humanitarian Assistance:
The United States acknowledged UNRWA’s critical role in providing lifesaving assistance to Palestinians, including essential food, medicine, shelter, and other vital humanitarian support. The U.S. emphasized the importance of UNRWA addressing the allegations and taking appropriate corrective measures to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of its operations.
Conclusion:
The United States’ response to the allegations of UNRWA employees’ involvement in the Hamas attack demonstrates its commitment to accountability and transparency in international aid organizations. The temporary pause in funding was a necessary step to address the serious concerns raised by the allegations and to encourage the United Nations to take swift action. The ongoing investigation and the UN’s commitment to a comprehensive review of UNRWA are positive steps towards restoring confidence in the agency’s operations and ensuring that humanitarian assistance is delivered in a neutral and impartial manner.