Several key donor countries, including Australia, Canada, Finland, Italy, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States, have announced the temporary suspension of their funding to the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA).
This decision comes in response to accusations by Israel that several UNRWA staff were involved in an attack by Hamas on October 7. Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong highlighted the importance of UNRWA's work but stated they would temporarily pause funding.
Canada, Finland, Italy, and Switzerland have also suspended payments, emphasizing the need for thorough investigations into the allegations.
The United Kingdom expressed being appalled by the accusations and temporarily paused future funding pending a review of the claims.
The United Nations, through UNRWA's head Philippe Lazzarini, vowed to hold accountable any agency employee involved in "acts of terror," with UN Chief Antonio Guterres pledging an urgent and comprehensive independent review of UNRWA.
The U.S. State Department suspended payments, welcoming the UN's investigation and emphasizing UNRWA's critical role in providing humanitarian support to Palestinians.
The situation reflects growing concerns and calls for accountability in the aftermath of the allegations
