Western Countries Pull Funding from UNRWA Over Allegations from Israel

SEAToday.com, Gaza - A number of countries decided to halt their funding for the United Nations relief agency for Palestinians (UNRWA) over Israeli allegations that some UNRWA staff were involved in the October 7 attack. These countries include the United States, Britain, Italy, Australia, Canada, Finland, Germany, the Netherlands and Switzerland.

UNRWA Commissioner General Philippe Lazzarini on Friday (1/26) said that Israeli authorities provided information regarding the alleged involvement of several UNRWA staff in the October 7 attack. As a result, UNRWA has fired the staff, and started an investigation. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also called for a swift investigation into the Israeli allegations.

Top Palestinian officials and Hamas have also called on the countries to immediately reverse the decision as it could pose a big risk for humanitarian relief.

Meanwhile, Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said he would promote a policy banning UNRWA involvement and activities on Gaza in the future.