Several countries, including the United Kingdom, Italy, Finland, Canada, and Australia, have suspended funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) following allegations that staff members were involved in Hamas terror attacks on Israel.
UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini confirmed the dismissal of several staff members after receiving Israeli intelligence on their involvement in the attacks.
The Biden administration also announced the suspension of funding to the organization, despite previously reversing former President Donald Trump’s decision to cut off funding.
“We welcome UNRWA’s immediate response, including terminating contracts and launching an investigation, as well its recent announcement of a full investigation into allegations against the organisation,” Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong said.
“Australia will engage closely with UNRWA on investigations and is consulting with international partners. While we do this, we will temporarily pause disbursement of recently announced funding.”
“The Italian government suspended funding for UNRWA after the atrocious attack by Hamas against Israel on 7 October. Allied countries have recently made the same decision. We are committed to humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian population, protecting Israel’s security,” Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani stated.
“The allegations of UNRWA staff involvement in the 7th Oct terrorist attacks in Israel are extremely concerning. Finland will temporarily pause funding to UNRWA and will follow the outcome of the independent investigation. Finland does not give aid that benefits Hamas,” Finish minister Ville Tavio said.
Western nations such as the UK, Australia, Canada, Finland, and Italy, have temporarily halted funding to UNRWA pending investigations into the allegations.
Israel’s security agencies provided intelligence indicating UNRWA staff’s active participation in the attacks, leading to the suspension of funding by these countries.
The European Union is awaiting the results of a comprehensive investigation before making any decisions on aid.
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