UN Concludes Investigations Into UNRWA Staff Accused By Israel

Posted by: lukwago J in world news April 27, 2024

In a recent development, the United Nations (UN) has concluded its probe into the allegations made by Israel regarding the involvement of 19 UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) staffers in the Hamas attacks on 7 October.

UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric announced on Friday that one case has been closed due to the absence of evidence provided by Israel, while four other cases have been temporarily suspended.

The controversy surrounding UNRWA emerged in January when Israel accused 12 out of its 30,000 employees of being involved in the cross-border attack, which tragically resulted in the loss of approximately 1,160 lives, mostly civilians, according to official Israeli figures cited by AFP.

Promptly responding to the allegations, the UN terminated the employment of the implicated staff members and initiated an internal investigation to assess the agency’s neutrality.

The investigation was led by former French foreign minister Catherine Colonna.

In recent weeks, the UN received information regarding the alleged involvement of seven additional UNRWA staffers in the attack, leading to fresh investigations.

The remaining accused staffers are currently under investigation

Dujarric confirmed that out of the initial group of 12 UNRWA members, one case has been closed due to the lack of evidence provided by Israel. He added, “We are considering appropriate administrative measures to be taken in relation to that individual.” Additionally, investigations into three other staffers have been suspended as the information provided by Israel was deemed insufficient.

With regards to the seven new cases, one of them has also been suspended pending further evidence from Israel. The remaining accused staffers are currently under investigation.

In March, an interim report highlighted that UNRWA has implemented numerous mechanisms and procedures to ensure compliance with the Humanitarian Principle of neutrality. However, the report also identified areas that require attention and improvement.

The Israeli allegations prompted 15 countries, including the United States, Britain, Germany, and Japan, to suspend their funding to UNRWA. However, Canada and Sweden, among others, have since resumed sending aid to the agency.

UNRWA, the largest aid organization in Gaza, plays a vital role by employing approximately 13,000 staff members in the territory.

It continues to operate amidst the ongoing conflict, where the Hamas-run health ministry reports that at least 34,356 lives, predominantly women and children, have been lost due to Israel’s bombardment.

As the UN concludes its investigations, the focus now shifts towards promoting transparency, addressing the identified areas of improvement, and restoring stability to the region through humanitarian efforts.

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