Investigations into UNRWA Unveil Alleged Ties to Terrorism

U.S. officials are investigating the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), a controversial U.N. body for Palestinian refugees, for alleged terrorism connections. Over 1,500 UNRWA employees face probes for links to terror activities, notably connections to Hamas.

The U.S. has urged U.N. member states to cease funding UNRWA due to long-standing concerns. Allegations include promoting terror through school materials and the involvement of personnel in the October 7 Hamas attacks against Israel. Evidence of Hamas tunnels beneath UNRWA schools has also heightened tensions.

U.S. URGES DONORS TO ABANDON UNRWA FUNDING AS UN DEFENDS AGENCY’S MISSION

An internal U.N. investigation, led by the Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS), concluded that there was insufficient evidence to implicate ten of nineteen UNRWA employees accused of involvement in the attacks. However, nine employees were dismissed from their positions.

The USAID Office of the Inspector General (OIG) continues to investigate, announcing that 108 current or former UNRWA staff were referred to the State Department. These individuals are suspected of terrorist involvement in Gaza. A U.S. diplomatic official confirmed the ongoing probe of over 1,500 individuals for potential ties to terrorist organizations.

The USAID OIG finds its work essential in ensuring U.S. funds do not support terrorist-affiliated personnel. The senior U.S. official stressed that American taxpayers should not finance such individuals, highlighting the importance of preventing terrorists from infiltrating American-funded aid organizations.

Hamas, classified as a Foreign Terrorist Organization in 1997 and as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist group in 2001, is under scrutiny. The USAID OIG’s findings include several UNRWA staff members’ involvement in the October 7 events, aligning with specific operational roles in Hamas.

USAID OIG reported issues involving various staff roles within UNRWA, including school principals and teachers engaged in activities with Hamas. Some individuals are directly linked to military operations, like a deputy principal involved with communications and weapon logistics during the October 7 attacks.

Following these revelations, President Trump and Secretary Rubio confirmed no U.S. funds would support UNRWA. Similarly, the Board of Peace declared UNRWA has no role in a future Gaza free of terrorist affiliations.

A State Department spokesperson echoed concerns, acknowledging the severe infiltration of UNRWA by terrorist elements, particularly following the October attacks. The ongoing investigation aims to prevent such entities from receiving U.S. aid, maintaining vigilance over future funding.

An official emphasized the necessity of transitioning services away from UNRWA responsibly. Critical aid deliveries must continue without empowering terrorist-associated groups.

Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Sen. Jim Risch urged action to address systemic issues within UNRWA. Ambassador Jeff Bartos encouraged breaking the cycle of dependency UNRWA perpetuates, supporting Palestinian self-sufficiency instead.

Amid these developments, a U.N. statement condemned obstructive and violent actions reportedly by the de facto authorities in Gaza. Incidents of aid theft and employee assault highlight barriers to humanitarian efforts in the region.

Fox News Digital requested UNRWA’s response to these growing concerns.