US backs Israel's decision to cut ties with UNRWA

US envoy Dorothy Shea backs the decision, urging an independent probe into alleged misuse of UNRWA schools and clinics

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The United States has expressed support for Israel’s decision to sever all ties with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). This move, announced during a UN Security Council meeting on Tuesday, includes barring Israeli officials from engaging with the agency and shutting down its offices in areas under Israeli control within 48 hours.

Israel accuses UNRWA of being complicit in the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks, claiming hostages were held in UNRWA facilities in Gaza. Dorothy Shea, the US representative to the UN, supported the decision, calling for an independent investigation into the allegations of misuse of UNRWA sites, which include schools and clinics.

Shea stated that the accusations follow a "pattern of serious allegations" against UN facilities being exploited by Hamas. Israel also claims that a dozen UNRWA employees were involved in the October 7 assault and suggests alternative organisations could handle humanitarian aid and reconstruction.

However, UNRWA and other entities, including a probe led by France’s former foreign minister Catherine Colonna, have found "neutrality issues" within the agency but stress that no substantial evidence has been provided for Israel’s core allegations.

Broader implications

The decision raises concerns over the delivery of essential services to Palestinian refugees, as UNRWA has been a key provider of aid, education, and healthcare in Gaza and other regions. The UN disputes Israel’s claim that other organisations could effectively fill the gap left by UNRWA’s absence.

The situation underscores rising tensions between Israel and international organisations, as well as the growing scrutiny over Hamas’s alleged misuse of UN facilities during its operations in Gaza. The UN has yet to respond to Israel’s ultimatum.