Gaza aid agency says it is ‘extremely desperate’ after funding halted

Japan and Austria have joined many other nations in halting funding to UNRWA, the largest UN agency in Gaza, amid deepening concerns over the alleged involvement of some staff in the 7 October Hamas attacks on Israel.

The US, UK, Germany, and Italy have also suspended funding.

UNRWA has dismissed several staff members over their alleged role in the attacks.

The agency, facing growing humanitarian needs in Gaza, has expressed desperation. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged donor countries to ensure the continuity of UNRWA’s operations, emphasising that Gaza should not be penalised.

Japan cited extreme concern over the alleged involvement of UNRWA staff in the terror attack and urged a prompt and thorough investigation.

Japan is the sixth-largest donor to the agency, according to UNRWA’s 2022 figures.

On Monday, Austria said it was following suit, calling for “a comprehensive, swift and complete investigation into the allegations”.