Calls to Withdraw Funding From UN Agency for Palestine Refugees
Ambassador’s Appeal at the United Nations
On July 1, Ambassador Jeff Bartos addressed the United Nations, presenting donors with a choice. They could either continue supporting the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) or opt for a framework guaranteeing Gazans peace, prosperity, and lasting change.
Finland Ends Donations to UNRWA
Finland, citing concerns over alleged ties to terrorism, announced it would cease funding the agency by the end of 2026. Finland joins the U.S. and Sweden, which have already stopped donations. The Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs confirmed the cessation but did not specify alternative channels for international support next year.
Concerns Over Terrorism Links
Investigations by the USAID Office of Inspector General and NGO UN Watch have claimed infiltration of UNRWA by Hamas. The allegations include participation in terrorist attacks in southern Israel. As a response, Finland decided to discontinue funding, emphasizing the need for vetted partnerships.
Shift from UNRWA to Trusted Partners
The Trump administration backed Board of Peace aims to replace UNRWA with credible partners. Officials express rising concerns about UNRWA’s activities in Gaza and seek a demilitarized, deradicalized future for the region.
Investigation and Findings
USAID OIG is scrutinizing approximately 1,500 members of UNRWA for terrorist links. The findings are influencing other countries to reassess their support for UNRWA. Sweden redirected its aid to other U.N. agencies after ending contributions to UNRWA.
Impact on Peace Efforts
UN Watch’s report claims 12% of UNRWA staff in Gaza belong to terror organizations. Hillel Neuer of UN Watch advocates for responsible alternatives to deliver aid to Palestinians, praising Finland’s decision as an example for other democracies.
UN’s Response to Funding Cessation
U.N. spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric expressed gratitude to Finland for previous funding and intends to discuss future collaborations. The country’s four-year funding totaled approximately $23.23 million.
Calls for De-funding UNRWA
Neuer argues that dismantling UNRWA is crucial for peace and deradicalization. He stresses the agency’s role in perpetuating the conflict by promoting the ‘right of return’ narrative.
Beth Bailey reports on the United Nations, antisemitism, and conflict regions for Fox News.