The United States Calls for “Fundamental Changes” in UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees
The United States has stated that the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, needs to make “fundamental changes” before Washington will resume funding. This decision comes after Israeli accusations that some agency staff took part in an attack by Hamas militants on October 7th. US Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, welcomed a UN inquiry into the allegations and called for more details from Israel.
The accusations against UNRWA staff became public when the agency announced that it had fired some employees based on information provided by Israel. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres confirmed that 12 individuals were implicated, with nine being fired, one deceased, and the identity of the remaining two being clarified. The United States, as the largest donor to UNRWA, temporarily paused its funding, along with several other countries. The US State Department spokesperson revealed that Washington provides $300-400 million annually to UNRWA.
In response to the Israeli allegations, Guterres held a meeting with UNRWA donors in New York to discuss the actions being taken and address concerns. The Secretary-General appealed to countries that had suspended funding to reconsider, while also urging other countries, including those in the region, to step up their support. The meeting was described as constructive by several ambassadors in attendance.
China’s UN Ambassador, Zhang Jun, highlighted the critical moment in dealing with the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and emphasized the need to focus on pursuing a ceasefire rather than allowing individual cases to divert attention.
An Israeli intelligence dossier, seen by Reuters, includes accusations that some UNRWA staff participated in abductions and killings during the October 7th raid that sparked the Gaza war. The dossier also alleges that around 190 UNRWA employees have ties to Hamas or other Islamic militant groups. The Palestinians have accused Israel of falsifying information to tarnish UNRWA’s reputation. However, Israel has not yet shared the intelligence dossier with the UN.
UNRWA plays a crucial role in Gaza, employing 13,000 people and providing essential services such as education, healthcare, and humanitarian aid. The agency shares its staff list with the host countries and governments in the areas it operates, including the Palestinian Authority and the Israeli government.
In addition to the funding issue, the UN Security Council expressed concern about the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza. The council urged all parties to work with UN Humanitarian and Reconstruction Coordinator for Gaza, Sigrid Kaag. Kaag emphasized that there is no substitute for the humanitarian role of UNRWA, highlighting its extensive knowledge and capacity to support the population in Gaza.
The United States’ call for “fundamental changes” in UNRWA reflects its commitment to ensuring accountability and preventing criminal acts within the agency. The US is seeking transparency and reassurances that those responsible for wrongdoing will be held accountable. The temporary pause in funding serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining integrity and trust in humanitarian organizations.
As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for all parties involved to prioritize the well-being of Palestinian refugees and work towards a peaceful resolution. The international community must come together to support UNRWA’s vital work and address the urgent humanitarian needs in Gaza.