BRUSSELS— The European Union (EU) stated that it will resume funding for UNRWA as international agencies and media reports cast doubt on Israeli government claims that employees took part in
October 7 events.
اضافة اعلان
In a press release on Friday, the European Commission said, "Following the exchange of letters with UNRWA confirming its commitments, the commission will proceed disburse a first tranche of 50 million euros out of the 82 million euros foreseen for
UNRWA for 2024.”
Additionally, European Commision President
Ursula von der Leyen said, "We stand by the Palestinian people in Gaza and elsewhere in the region.”
She added, "They face terrible conditions putting their lives at risk because of lack of access to sufficient food and other basic needs. That is why we are reinforcing our support to them this year by a further 68 million euros.”
In January, the Israeli government claimed 12 UNRWA employees were involved in the events of
October 7.
The accusations prompted the US government, as well as the governments of multiple contributing states, to halt aid to UNRWA, and the organization subsequently fired employees.
Earlier in February, UNRWA commissioner general Phillipe Lazzarini said the employees had been fired without evidence and that the claims were under investigation.
Multiple news reports, including from the Daily Beast and Britain's Channel four, found that Israeli reports alleging UNRWA staff involvement were unsubstantiated.
According to the Wall Street Journal, the US intelligence community assessed the claims as plausible with ‘low confidence.’
The UN also said in a press release, "UNRWA has not received any information, let alone any evidence, from the
Israeli Authorities or any other member state about the ... claim.”
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