UNRWA says funding suspensions will “most likely” halt its work across Middle East by end of February

After nearly 20 governments suspended $440 million in funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), the colossal humanitarian needs of people in Gaza will likely get worse, the main relief agency in Gaza said.

“If the funding remains suspended, we will most likely be forced to shut down our operations by end of February not only in Gaza but also across the region.” UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini said Thursday.

Several countries announced their decisions to suspend their funding to the agency after Israel accused some UNRWA staffers of involvement in the October 7 attacks. UNRWA fired several employees after the allegations and launched an investigation, promising that anyone involved in the October 7 attacks will be held accountable “including through criminal prosecution” if found to be responsible. But beyond the allegations of recent days, Israel has longstanding issues with UNRWA.

The suspension of funding has raised questions about the fate of the 5.9 million refugees that the agency serves.