Japan suspends funding to UNRWA, citing allegations of staff involvement in Hamas attack

Japan temporarily halts its funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees due to allegations by Israel

Japan announced on Sunday that it would temporarily halt its funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA). This decision comes in response to allegations made by Israel that some UNRWA staff members were involved in the initial Hamas attack.

The UNRWA, which has been a central player in humanitarian efforts in Gaza, has already terminated several staff members based on Israel’s accusations. The agency has pledged a comprehensive investigation into the unspecified claims. Meanwhile, Israel has declared its intention to cease UNRWA’s operations in Gaza after the conflict.

Major donors, including the United States and Germany, have already suspended their financial support for UNRWA. Japan joins this list, expressing “extreme concern” about the alleged involvement of UNRWA staff in the Oct.7 attack.

Japan’s Foreign Ministry released a statement on the matter, saying, “In response, Japan has decided to suspend additional funding to UNRWA for the time being while UNRWA conducts an investigation into the matter and considers measures to address the allegations.”

The statement also highlighted Japan’s commitment to diplomatic efforts, stating, “At the same time, Japan will continue to make persistent and active diplomatic efforts to improve the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip and to calm down the situation as soon as possible by providing support to other international organizations.”

Source: AFP