US Investigation into UNRWA for Alleged Terrorism Links

U.S. officials are probing the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) for alleged connections to terrorism. UNRWA represents Palestinian refugees, with over 1,500 employees under investigation for potential links to terrorist activities.

Concerns have arisen over UNRWA’s school materials that may promote terror, and the presence of Hamas tunnels beneath UNRWA facilities. There are also allegations of staff involvement in Hamas attacks, particularly on October 7 against Israel. U.S. authorities are urging member states to withdraw financial support for UNRWA.

In 2024, the U.N.’s Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) investigated claims against 19 UNRWA employees involved in the October attacks. OIOS found insufficient evidence for 10 individuals, while UNRWA ended work contracts for the remaining nine.

The USAID Office of the Inspector General (OIG) is conducting a separate investigation. It has proposed suspending or banning 108 UNRWA workers through the State Department. These individuals are alleged to be part of the Hamas attack or linked to terrorist groups.

A diplomatic source informed Fox News Digital about the investigation of UNRWA employees for connections to foreign terrorist organizations in Gaza.

The USAID OIG investigation aims to prevent U.S. aid workers affiliated with terrorist groups from getting U.S. taxpayer funds. This effort is crucial for ensuring that aid workers are not involved in terrorism.

Hamas has been classified as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) by the U.S. State Department since 1997. It also holds a designation as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist group (SDGT) since 2001.

The USAID OIG disclosed that the individuals recommended for debarment include school principals, teachers, and medical personnel, among others. Notably, some staff, like school principals, have been involved with Hamas military units.

In particular, a teacher allegedly carried anti-tank missiles during the October 7 terrorist attacks. A deputy school principal reportedly assisted in communication efforts.

The USAID OIG plans further referrals to the State Department and potential criminal referrals.

Hafez Mousa Mohammed Mousa, connected with the Hamas East Jabaliya Battalion, faces a ban from future U.S. government work due to his role in the attacks.

Responses from the State Department indicate surprise over findings that more UNRWA employees participated in the October attacks. President Trump and Secretary Rubio have proposed ending funding to UNRWA.

The Board of Peace expressed concern regarding UNRWA’s operations in Gaza. Moving forward, a transition is needed to ensure continued aid delivery without involvement in terrorism.

Sen. Jim Risch highlighted UNRWA’s infiltration on social media. He emphasized the need for U.S. action against systemic radicalization within UNRWA facilities.

Ambassador Jeff Bartos urges action to prevent funding an organization implicated in terrorism. This would allow Palestinians to find sustainable solutions and prosperity.

Hamas’s interference with aid delivery continues to adversely affect Gaza. U.N. Deputy Special Coordinator for the Middle East, Dr. Ramiz Alakbarov, condemned violent interruptions of humanitarian operations in the region.

Fox News Digital sought UNRWA’s response to these allegations, but no comment was provided.