Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has announced a temporary suspension of funding for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in Gaza. This decision comes in the wake of allegations that some UNRWA staff were involved in Hamas’ attacks on October 7. Wong expressed Australia’s endorsement of UNRWA’s decision to open an investigation and terminate certain work contracts in response to claims by Israeli authorities regarding employee participation in the Hamas attack on southern Israel.
In a statement on Saturday, Wong emphasized that Australia remains committed to supporting the people of Gaza and working to provide humanitarian assistance. However, funding will be put on hold temporarily. Wong also reiterated calls for the protection of civilians and the need for civilian access in the region.
Australia’s announcement aligns with similar actions by the United States and Canada, both of which had earlier declared pauses in funding for UNRWA following the allegations of staff involvement in the Hamas attacks. The situation underscores the sensitivity and complexity surrounding humanitarian funding in conflict zones, particularly when allegations of staff involvement in hostilities arise.
