UN Fires Nine Staff Over Gaza Attack Allegations

The United Nations announced the dismissal of nine staff members of the UNRWA following a probe into their potential involvement in the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel. The investigation, initiated after Israeli charges, confirmed sufficient evidence against nine individuals, all male, while other cases lacked conclusive proof.

The United Nations has terminated nine staff members of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) over their alleged role in the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel. The U.N. deputy spokesperson, Farhan Haq, stated that there was sufficient evidence to conclude their involvement.

The U.N. Office of Internal Oversight Services conducted the investigation into claims that 19 UNRWA staff members participated in the attacks. Of these, nine have been dismissed, two have died, and the records of others are still under review. Haq emphasized the gravity of any participation in such attacks, calling it a betrayal of their mission.

The investigation commenced following Israeli allegations in January, which accused 12 UNRWA staff of involvement in the attacks. Further accusations were made in the months that followed, leading to a review of over 450 staff members. Despite finding conclusive evidence against nine, Haq noted that details of the investigation remain confidential, and the information provided by Israeli authorities could not be independently verified.

(With inputs from agencies.)