The United States has paused new funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) while authorities review serious claims about potential involvement by some staff in the Hamas attacks on October 7. The pause signals a careful assessment of internal controls as investigators examine the allegations and determine any role UNRWA personnel may have played in the violence.
U.S. officials stressed that the concerns focus on a subset of UNRWA staff and that the review aims to ensure accountability and protect humanitarian work. A Foreign Ministry spokesperson described the facts as alleged, noting that Hamas could be implicated in the attacks and underscoring the need for a full, transparent investigation.
The United States later confirmed the temporary halt on additional funding to UNRWA during the investigations. Washington said a comprehensive review would weigh the implications for the agency’s funding and the broader U.S. relationship with UNRWA, with actions to follow based on the findings and the UN’s response to the accusations.
Despite the pause, officials affirmed appreciation for UNRWA’s essential role in delivering food, medical supplies, and other critical aid to Palestinians. The State Department highlighted how UNRWA has helped save lives and ease humanitarian distress, especially during times of heightened conflict.
There was a clear call from policymakers for accountability. It was emphasized that UNRWA must address the allegations, cooperate fully with investigators, and implement appropriate corrective measures if misconduct is confirmed. The goal is to protect aid recipients while maintaining strict oversight of the organization’s operations.
In support of this effort, Secretary of State Anthony Blinken spoke with United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, urging a prompt and thorough inquiry into the reported incidents. The administration conveyed that a careful, transparent investigation would help determine next steps in the bilateral relationship and ensure that aid channels remain secure and properly governed.
President Joe Biden’s administration also engaged with the Israeli government to request additional information about the accusations. The State Department reiterates that anyone involved in the October 7 attacks must be held fully accountable, underscoring the pursuit of justice for victims and a firm response to any verified wrongdoing.
Later, the White House signaled that policy decisions regarding UNRWA would depend on the outcomes of the ongoing investigations. A National Security Council spokesperson indicated that further adjustments to the U.S. relationship with UNRWA would be considered in light of the results, reflecting a cautious approach that weighs humanitarian needs against safeguarding integrity in aid operations. Oversight measures would be part of any policy review.
Dismissal of several staff members
Alongside the investigations, UNRWA announced it would terminate the contracts of several personnel tied to the allegations and launch a formal inquiry to clarify the facts. The agency said it would cooperate with authorities and take appropriate actions based on the findings. This step demonstrates an ongoing effort to address concerns while continuing to deliver essential services to those in need.
Israel has repeatedly criticized UNRWA, accusing elements within the agency in Gaza of supporting Hamas. UNRWA has consistently rejected these charges, stating that it maintains strict neutrality under the oversight of the United Nations and its member states. The debate underscores broader tensions surrounding humanitarian aid in conflict zones and the challenge of ensuring aid reaches civilians without becoming entangled with militant networks.
UNRWA remains one of the largest aid providers in the region, employing tens of thousands of staff who work to sustain civilians amid ongoing hostilities. The current situation highlights the delicate balance between delivering lifesaving assistance and maintaining rigorous scrutiny to prevent misuse of resources. The October 7 attacks have intensified calls for reforms and stronger accountability across international relief agencies.
As events unfold, observers note that the outcome of the investigations could influence UNRWA’s operations and the wider approach of donor governments toward humanitarian engagement in Gaza and nearby areas. The emphasis is on confirming facts, safeguarding humanitarian access, and upholding high standards of ethical conduct in international aid work, even amid serious security risks and urgent needs.
[Attribution: statements from the U.S. Department of State, the White House, and UN officials, summarized for informational purposes.]