UNRWA Dismisses 70 Gaza Employees Amid Hamas Allegations

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) faced significant actions after longstanding accusations from Israel of collaboration with Hamas. Commissioner-General Christian Saunders terminated the employment of 70 staff members in Gaza, citing safety and security concerns for refugees and personnel.

UNRWA asserted that this move did not imply acknowledgment of guilt. The agency stated it has consistently requested evidence from Israeli authorities to back the allegations against its employees but has yet to receive any substantial response.

USAID Investigation

Following a United States Agency for International Development (USAID) investigation, over 100 UNRWA staff were recommended for suspension or dismissal. The inquiry revealed associations of some UNRWA employees with Hamas, notably schools’ personnel involved in organizational activities ranging from civil society to military operations. Specific findings included roles such as a deputy school principal linked to Hamas military operations and a teacher with sniper expertise.

Israeli Statements on UNRWA

Israeli authorities have continually claimed UNRWA’s involvement with Hamas. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) noted several instances of UNRWA infrastructure being used by Hamas and employees’ participation in terrorist activities.

The IDF reported that a significant portion of UNRWA’s workforce in Gaza is affiliated with Hamas or other terrorist organizations.

Responses and Accusations

In its statement, Israel’s Foreign Ministry criticized UNRWA for failing to mention Hamas or provide substantial evidence of non-collaboration. The ministry accused UNRWA of harboring terrorists and allowing facilities to be used as Hamas operations hubs.

UNRWA maintains it does not deliberately collaborate with Hamas but states cooperation with the group is essential for aid distribution within Gaza. It emphasized reliance on member states’ support, including Israel, for operational security and neutrality.

Internal Oversight Actions

In April, UNRWA’s Office of Internal Oversight Services reported on a separate investigation into staff accused of participating in Oct. 7 attacks. Of 19 cases, 12 employees were terminated in January. Investigations on remaining cases are ongoing.

Political Context

In recent political developments, the Trump administration contemplated imposing terrorism-related sanctions on UNRWA, a stance echoed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, labeling UNRWA as “a subsidiary of Hamas.”

Fox News Digital sought comments from UNRWA and the Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations but did not receive immediate responses.