The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has suspended or disbarred 21 staff members following investigations into their alleged involvement in the October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel or affiliations with Hamas, according to a statement from the U.S. Department of State.
The State Department confirmed that its own investigations, conducted in coordination with UNRWA, led to the identification of these individuals. The agency has taken administrative action, including suspension and termination, against those found to have participated in the attacks or maintained ties with militant groups.
UNRWA has stated that it takes allegations of misconduct seriously and has implemented enhanced vetting procedures for its staff. The agency employs over 30,000 people in the region, primarily providing education, health, and social services to Palestinian refugees.
The U.S. government, which had paused funding to UNRWA in early 2024, has since resumed contributions after the agency agreed to reforms and increased oversight. The State Department emphasized that the suspensions demonstrate UNRWA's commitment to accountability.
