UN Fires Nine UNRWA Staff Linked to Hamas Attack on Israel, Funding Impacted

The United Nations has taken decisive action by terminating the employment of nine employees from the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) following an internal investigation that indicated possible involvement in the October 7 attack led by Hamas on Israel.

This significant step was disclosed in a brief statement to journalists by the office of the U.N. secretary-general. The specific roles of the UNRWA staff members in the attack were not elaborated upon, but the announcement confirmed that nine employees, including seven who were previously terminated, were affected.

Responding to Allegations

Earlier this year, an Israeli intelligence document, shared with various Western news outlets, detailed allegations against a dozen U.N. employees, including UNRWA staff. The report claimed that seven staff members crossed into Israeli territory during the October 7 attack, with two allegedly participating in kidnappings.

In response to these claims, the U.N.'s internal watchdog launched an investigation, prompted by Israel's accusations. The investigation found sufficient evidence indicating the potential involvement of nine UNRWA employees in the attack. Philippe Lazzarini, the agency's head, stated that these remaining staff members could no longer be employed by UNRWA.

The pause in funding from top donor countries, including the U.S., caused a cash crunch of approximately $450 million. However, since then, all donor countries, except for the U.S., have decided to resume funding.

Despite the funding challenges, UNRWA remains committed to delivering essential services to Palestine refugees in Gaza and across the region. Lazzarini emphasized the agency's dedication to continuing lifesaving and critical services, particularly in light of the ongoing war, regional instability, and the risk of escalation.

In terms of evidence, the U.N. watchdog, called the Office of Internal Oversight Services, based its findings on information provided by Israel during discussions with Israeli authorities. While it could not independently verify the evidence due to the lack of direct access, the investigators also reviewed internal UNRWA information, including staff records, emails, and other communications data.

In addition to the nine terminations, the investigation did not find sufficient evidence in nine other cases, and in one case, there was no evidence indicating involvement.

The prompt response from the U.N. and UNRWA underscores the seriousness of the allegations and the agency's commitment to ensuring accountability and transparency. The significant impact of the funding pause and the agency's determination to continue providing crucial services to Palestine refugees discussed.

The Way Forward

UNRWA is now focused on navigating the challenges posed by the funding pause while continuing to deliver vital services to those in need. The agency's priority remains delivering lifesaving and critical services to Palestine refugees in Gaza and the broader region, particularly amidst the ongoing conflict and regional instability.

As the situation unfolds, it will be essential for UNRWA to address the funding shortfall and ensure uninterrupted support for the vulnerable populations it serves. The agency's commitment to transparency and accountability will be crucial in rebuilding trust and securing continued support from donor countries.