The House Foreign Affairs Committee is set to launch a comprehensive investigation into the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), focusing on its alleged connections with Hamas.
Representative Darrell Issa (R-California), a senior member of the committee, expressed concerns about the depth of the relationship between UNRWA and Hamas. Issa stated, “There is extensive evidence of a troubling connection between UNRWA and Hamas, and it is far deeper than was known. Congress must now investigate and uncover the extent of what UNRWA knew, what it did, and what it may be hiding from the world.”
This move comes amidst growing criticism of UNRWA, accused of supporting the terrorist network in Gaza. The organization, officially dedicated to humanitarian aid, has faced scrutiny for its alleged ties to recent actions. Reports have surfaced of Hamas terror tunnels found near UNRWA schools and an Israeli hostage claiming to have been held in the attic of a UNRWA teacher.
The probe, likely to be conducted through the committee’s oversight subcommittee chaired by Rep. Brian Mast (R-Florida), aims to thoroughly examine the agency’s actions and associations. Although the House doesn’t have direct jurisdiction over the United Nations, it does oversee the Department of State, which manages the U.S. relationship with UNRWA.
The United States, under President Biden, has renewed its support for UNRWA, contributing over $730 million since the beginning of his administration. This is a stark contrast to the stance of the previous administration, where former President Trump ceased funding, deeming UNRWA an “irredeemably flawed operation.”
With potential implications for future U.S. funding, the committee plans to rigorously pursue the investigation. One insider mentioned the possibility of withholding funding if any noncompliance is detected. Hillel Neuer, Executive Director of UN Watch, voiced his concern about systemic issues within the State Department’s handling of UNRWA, indicating a willingness to cooperate with the investigation.
