The UN agency for Palestinian refugees on Friday, January 26, said it had sacked "several" employees Israel accused of involvement in Hamas's unprecedented October 7 attack that triggered the Gaza war. UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini said he took the decision "to protect the Agency's ability to deliver humanitarian assistance" and launched an investigation after Israeli authorities provided information about the staff members' alleged involvement.
Lazzarini said that "several" employees had been fired and that an investigation was underway after Israeli authorities provided information about the staff members' alleged involvement in the October 7 bloodshed.
The US State Department said in a statement that it was "extremely troubled" by the allegations against the agency and has "temporarily paused additional funding... while we review these allegations and the steps the United Nations is taking to address them."
Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke Thursday with the head of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, "to emphasize the necessity of a thorough and swift investigation of this matter," the statement said. "We also welcome the UN's announcement of a "comprehensive and independent" review of UNRWA. There must be complete accountability for anyone who participated in the heinous attacks of October 7," the State Department said.
The statement underlined that "UNRWA plays a critical role in providing lifesaving assistance to Palestinians, including essential food, medicine, shelter, and other vital humanitarian support." "Their work has saved lives, and it is important that UNRWA address these allegations and take any appropriate corrective measures, including reviewing its existing policies and procedures."