Title: U.N. Officials Call for Revival of Funding for Palestinian Aid Agency Amid Controversy
U.N. officials and donor nations are urging the revival of funding for the main U.N. agency aiding Palestinians, known as UNRWA, after a review found that Israel had not provided evidence to support its claim that many agency employees are members of terrorist organizations.
The review, released on Monday, highlighted that Israel’s accusations lacked supporting evidence and called for donors to actively support UNRWA, which serves as a lifeline for Palestine refugees in the region. The report also recommended measures for the agency to protect its neutrality.
Despite more than a dozen countries, including the United States, suspending funding to UNRWA following Israel’s claims, some nations have already resumed their support, citing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the agency’s efforts to improve accountability.
While the United States is awaiting the results of U.N. investigations before deciding on resuming donations, other countries like Belgium and Ireland have called for donors to resume their support for UNRWA. Ireland’s foreign minister emphasized the vital role of UNRWA in providing aid and education to Palestinians.
In contrast, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called for the closure of UNRWA, accusing the agency of being targeted with a campaign to undermine its operations. Israel’s Foreign Ministry has urged donor countries to refrain from sending money to the organization.
UNRWA has defended itself against Israel’s allegations, stating that it has been unfairly targeted and that Palestinians should not suffer for the actions of Hamas. The European Union, a major donor to UNRWA, has announced increased funding to address the dire conditions faced by Palestinians.
As the debate continues over the funding of UNRWA, the international community remains divided on how to support Palestinian refugees and ensure the agency’s operations continue to provide essential services in the region.
By Patrick Kingsley and Matt Surman
