US Envoy Urges Shift in Gaza Funding Away from UNRWA
At a recent United Nations event, U.S. Ambassador Jeff Bartos called on countries to reconsider their financial support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). Instead, he suggested directing funds towards the newly established Board of Peace for Gaza, which aims to bring lasting change and stability to the region.
Bartos spoke during UNRWA’s annual pledging conference, criticizing the agency for allegedly being linked to Hamas, the militant group. He highlighted the cycle of repeating ineffective approaches, stating, “Doing the same thing over and over, expecting a different result is the definition of insanity.”
He encouraged donor nations to stop funding UNRWA’s schools, claiming they promote anti-Semitism and glorify terrorism. Bartos pointed out that some UNRWA employees may have been involved in Hamas activities.
“You can choose to fund incitement or support a path to peace that benefits Gazans,” he added, emphasizing the potential for growth and positive change through the Board of Peace.
This Board, created under former President Trump’s Gaza plan, is intended to oversee governance and development in the region, moving away from what he termed a system infiltrated by Hamas.
Despite the U.S. stance, the UN continues to defend UNRWA, insisting it plays a critical humanitarian role. Spokesman Stéphane Dujarric explained that the agency operates under a mandate from the General Assembly and takes allegations of infiltration seriously. He affirmed that UNRWA is essential for providing humanitarian assistance in Gaza.
In stark contrast to the U.S. position, several European nations announced continued support for UNRWA. The UK, for instance, pledged £23 million, with officials stating that UNRWA is crucial for providing essential services to Palestinian refugees across multiple regions. Similarly, France reiterated its backing, citing a commitment of €123 million this year alone.
As the funding debate unfolds, tensions continue between U.S. claims and the support that UNRWA receives from other nations. The call for investigations into allegations of Hamas infiltration within UNRWA is ongoing, raising complex questions regarding accountability and humanitarian efforts in the region.
