UN Secretary-General Dismisses 9 UNRWA Staff Amid Allegations

Following serious allegations regarding the involvement of 12 staff members of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) in the deadly Hamas attack in Israel on October 7, nine of these individuals have been dismissed, one has died, and the status of two others is still being clarified, as stated by UN Secretary-General António Guterres.

Guterres announced on Sunday that prompt measures are being taken in response to these grave accusations against UNRWA staff. An investigation by the UN’s oversight body is underway, and an independent review is also expected.

The Secretary-General emphasized that any UN staff member found participating in terrorist activities would face serious repercussions, including criminal prosecution. However, he also stressed the importance of continuing financial support to UNRWA, which is crucial for the survival of 2 million people in Gaza who rely on its assistance. He warned that the current funding shortfall could impact the agency’s ability to provide necessary support in February.

In light of these allegations, nine countries have temporarily halted funding to UNRWA, the principal UN agency in Gaza. While acknowledging the severity of the accusations and the reaction they have provoked, Guterres appealed to these governments to ensure the continuity of UNRWA’s operations.

Guterres emphasized that while the alleged actions of these staff members must have consequences, it’s important not to penalize the tens of thousands of UNRWA workers, many of whom operate in extremely dangerous conditions. He underscored the critical need to continue supporting the desperate populations that depend on UNRWA’s services.