Produced by: Tarun Mishra
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) faces upheaval following Israel's accusation on some of its staff member's involvement in Hamas' October 7 terror attacks, reported CNN.
Established after the 1948 Arab-Israeli war, UNRWA aids displaced Palestinians, numbering 5.9 million, providing assistance in education, healthcare, camp infrastructure, social services, and emergency aid.
Israel accused UNRWA employees of involvement in the October 7 attacks. Israel has shared information on 12 UNRWA staff members, leading to the termination of nine contracts. UNRWA has said that it would investigate and hold members accountable who were involved in terrorism.
The Israel Defence Forces alleged that UNRWA facilities were used for "terrorist purposes." UNRWA awaits an independent review of these claims and currently doing an internal investigation.
Recent months have seen deteriorating relations between Israel and the UN. Criticism of Israel's conduct in Gaza has heightened tensions, with the UN calling for a ceasefire and invoking diplomatic measures.
Israel has long criticized UNRWA, accusing it of anti-Israel incitement. Previous attempts were made to dismantle UNRWA and merging it with the main UN refugee agency. The claims of aid diversion and teaching hatred were denied by UNRWA.
Israel has long criticized UNRWA, accusing it of anti-Israel incitement. Previous attempts were made to dismantle UNRWA and merging it with the main UN refugee agency. The claims of aid diversion and teaching hatred were denied by UNRWA.
UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini expressed shock at the funding suspensions, urging donor countries to reconsider. The funding halt raises concerns about the organization's ability to provide humanitarian relief in Gaza amid growing fears of starvation.