UN chief defends UNRWA amid Hamas claims on October 7

U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres defended the operations of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in Gaza, stating that only a small number of its members were affiliated with Hamas. This statement came in response to claims made by Israeli ambassador to the U.N., Danny Danon, who alleged that the organization was entirely controlled by Hamas. Guterres acknowledged that there had been some infiltration by Hamas but emphasized that there was no substantial evidence to support Israel's broader accusations. During a CNN appearance, Guterres condemned the actions of those affiliated with Hamas, particularly in relation to the events of October 7, when a massacre occurred in southern Israel. He noted that while tunnels exist beneath UNRWA premises, this is a common situation throughout Gaza and does not imply UNRWA's complicity with Hamas. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claimed that a recent airstrike on an UNRWA school targeted Hamas operatives disguised as local employees. In the wake of the October 7 massacre, which resulted in the deaths of nearly 1,200 people, UNRWA faced scrutiny and was forced to terminate nine employees suspected of involvement. The U.S. government also suspended funding to UNRWA due to these allegations, reversing a previous decision by President Biden to restore aid after former President Trump had cut it in 2018. The ongoing conflict and accusations have led to heightened tensions between Israel and the U.N., with Danon accusing Guterres of ignoring the reality of Hamas's influence within UNRWA. The situation remains complex, as both sides continue to present conflicting narratives regarding the agency's role in the region.