The European Commission wants to again pay out money to the Palestinian aid organization UNRWA, which has come under criticism. A first tranche of 50 million euros is expected to flow next week. At the end of January it was announced that UNRWA employees were allegedly involved in the Hamas terrorist attack. The committee subsequently ordered an audit of the funds.
As a condition for the retransfer of money, UNRWA has agreed to an inspection, the Brussels authority announced on Friday. External experts appointed by the EU are to examine the aid agency’s control systems, which are intended to prevent UNRWA staff from becoming involved in terrorist activities. The European Commission wants to make a total of 82 million euros available to the Palestinian aid organization this year.
Another 68 million in emergency aid
They also want to pay another 68 million euros in emergency aid to the Palestinians this year. The committee said Friday that the money should go to international partners such as the Red Cross and Red Crescent.
“Innocent Palestinians should not have to pay the price for the crimes of the terrorist group Hamas,” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said in a statement. “They face horrific conditions that endanger their lives because they do not have access to adequate food and other basic needs. That is why we are increasing our support for them this year by another 68 million euros.”
Investigations are underway
UNRWA recently warned that all work would have to stop within weeks if promised funds were not paid. Several Western countries, including Austria, suspended payments to UNRWA at the end of January. The reason is Israeli accusations that aid organization employees were involved in the Hamas attack on the Israeli border area on October 7. This is currently being investigated. Many civilians in the Gaza Strip depend on UN aid.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
