Western Countries Pull Funding from UNRWA Over Allegations from Israel

Western Countries Pull Funding from UNRWA Over Allegations from Israel
Western Countries Pull Funding from UNRWA Over Allegations from Israel. Photo : France 24

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.