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The United Kingdom has halted financial support for the United Nations organization that offers assistance to Palestinian refugees. This decision came after accusations that employees were linked to the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7th, which resulted in fatalities.
Four additional nations – the United States, Australia, Italy, and Canada – have also temporarily stopped giving donations.
Over 1,200 individuals lost their lives as Hamas attacked Israeli neighborhoods.
The current conflict in Gaza was triggered by violence, resulting in the deaths of over 25,000 Palestinians. This occurred after Israel made a promise to eliminate Hamas.
The UK government expressed shock over claims that employees of UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency) were implicated in the attack on October 7th. This act of terrorism has been consistently denounced by the UK government.
The statement stated that the UK will temporarily stop providing funding to UNRWA while they investigate troubling accusations.
We are dedicated to delivering necessary humanitarian assistance to the individuals in Gaza who are in dire need.
Employees of UNRWA
The relief organization has played an important part in delivering assistance to the people living in the besieged area during a growing humanitarian crisis.
Earlier this week, Lord Cameron, the foreign secretary, urged for increased allowances for entry into Gaza during his trip to the area.
Sarah Champion, leader of the House of Commons’ select committee for International Development, expressed her deep concern over the situation, stating that the effects on civilians will be immense as UNWRA often serves as the primary governing body.
Former immigration minister Robert Jenrick expressed satisfaction that Britain had decided to temporarily halt its support for UNRWA. He also stated that the UK has been careless in choosing which organizations to fund and for what reasons, and that this must change immediately.
The current situation began on Friday when the head of UNRWA, Philippe Lazzarini, announced that the organization had terminated contracts with multiple employees and launched an investigation following Israel’s claims that they were involved in the attack.
The United States, the largest contributor to the organization, stated that accusations had been lodged against 12 staff members.
In 2018, Palestinian workers of UNWRA demonstrate against the reduction of employment opportunities.
UNRWA employs approximately 13,000 individuals in Gaza, the vast majority of whom are Palestinians. These employees include teachers working in the agency’s schools, as well as doctors and other medical personnel.
Israeli authorities have often made allegations against UNRWA for permitting incitement against Israel. In 2018, the Trump administration put a halt to funding for the organization, but President Biden reinstated it.
During the attack on October 7th, Hamas successfully breached the security barrier encompassing Gaza and proceeded to invade nearby Israeli communities, abducting approximately 250 individuals.
Although several hostages have been freed through exchange agreements with Israel, approximately 100 remain in captivity.
Source: independent.co.uk
