The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has been experiencing the suspension of funding from various countries, including Japan. This action was taken after allegations emerged that UNRWA staffers were involved in the attack on Israel by Hamas on Oct. 7. In response to the allegations, Japan has decided to suspend additional funding while UNRWA conducts an investigation into the matter, citing extreme concern. Japan also called for UNRWA to launch a prompt and complete investigation and take necessary measures to strengthen governance within the agency.
UNRWA commissioner-general, Philippe Lazzarini, has urged the countries to reconsider their decisions, emphasizing the critical support that UNRWA provides to the people in Gaza. He warned that this support could collapse due to the lack of funding, stating that the lives of people in Gaza depend on this aid. Lazzarini also mentioned that the most senior investigative authority in the U.N. system has been informed of the situation and emphasized the need for a transparent independent investigation.
The relief agency has been under scrutiny for its alleged ties to groups considered terrorist by the United States and its allies and for its teaching materials, which have been criticized for fostering anti-Semitism and extremist jihadism in Palestinian schools. Previously, in 2018, the United States cut funding for UNRWA, but the decision was reversed by President Joe Biden after he assumed office.
On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas-led terrorists launched surprise attacks on Israel, leading to a high death toll in both Israel and Gaza. The ongoing war in the region has drawn international attention and led to the suspension of funding to UNRWA by several countries.