The United Kingdom has become the latest country to stop funding UNRWA, the United Nations agency for the Palestinians. The decision comes after the company announced on October 7 that it would fire several employees over alleged involvement in Hamas attacks.
Countries “shocked” by allegations
The British government expressed its “shock” at Israel's allegations. The United States, Australia, Italy and Canada have already suspended additional funding to the United Nations. UNRWA said it has ordered an investigation into the information provided by Israel.
The EU also said it would evaluate future measures.Based on the results of a thorough and detailed investigationUN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he was “horrified by the news”.
Investigation by UNRWA officials
Philippe Lazzarini, head of UNRWA, said a full investigation into the allegations was underway “to establish the truth without delay”.
Lazzarini added: “To protect the agency's ability to deliver humanitarian assistance, I have decided to terminate the contracts of these staff immediately.“. It added that any employee involved in “acts of terrorism” would be held accountable.
Countries respond to allegations
Other countries, such as Australia, have said they will “work closely with UNRWA on investigations” and are consulting with their international partners. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong added that her country would continue to support the people of Gaza and strive to provide humanitarian assistance.
The news comes days after Wong announced an increase in humanitarian funding for “conflict-affected populations” with a focus on women and children in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. He pledged an additional $21.5m in funding, including $6m to UNRWA.
A call to support UNRWA
On the other hand, Palestinian Authority Minister of Civil Affairs Hussein al-Sheikh said some countries have decided to suspend support for the main UN agency.Involves great risks of political and humanitarian relief“.
Al-Sheikh urged Western donors to immediately reverse their decision: “This international organization needs maximum support“.
Finally, the Hamas press office, in a release posted on Telegram, urged the UN and international organizations not to “give in to threats and intimidation” by Israel. Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on southern Israeli communities on October 7 last year, killing 1,300 people, mostly civilians.
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