UN Agency Fires Employees Over Alleged Involvement in October 7 Attack
UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini has stated that any UNRWA employee who was involved in acts of terror would be held accountable, including through criminal prosecution.
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) has announced the suspension of several UNRWA employees alleged to have taken part in the October 7th attacks. The agency has taken this step following information received from the Israeli authorities about the alleged involvement of these employees in the horrific attacks on Israel that occurred on October 7, 2024.
UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini has stated that any UNRWA employee who was involved in acts of terror would be held accountable, including through criminal prosecution. The agency has launched an investigation to establish the truth and has terminated the contracts of the staff members in question.
The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, has been briefed on the allegations and expressed his horror at the news. He has asked for a comprehensive, independent review of UNRWA to be conducted.
The United States has announced that it is pausing funds for the UN body over these allegations, with State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller stating that the U.S. is "extremely troubled by the allegations." The European Union has also expressed its concern and called for a thorough investigation into the matter.
The incident has sparked debate about the role of UNRWA in the region and the need for greater accountability and transparency in the agency's operations. It remains to be seen what further actions UNRWA and the international community will take in response to these allegations.