US, UK, Canada, France Halt Donations to UN Agency Amid Terror Allegations

US, UK, Canada, France Halt Donations to UN Agency Amid Terror Allegations

US, UK, Canada, France Halt Donations to UN Agency Amid Terror Allegations

Donor Countries Halt Funding to UN Agency Amid Allegations

Australia: Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong commended UNRWA’s prompt response to allegations but announced a temporary pause in recent funding, emphasizing the importance of an investigation.

Britain: The British government expressed appall at Israel’s allegations, deciding to temporarily halt future funding while the Foreign Office reviews the claims.

Canada: Canada’s International Development Minister Ahmed Hussen announced a temporary pause in additional funding to UNRWA pending a thorough investigation into the allegations.

Finland: Finland suspended its annual five-million-euro funding to UNRWA, calling for an independent and thorough investigation to ensure funds do not reach terrorist groups.

France: Paris declared no plans for new funding to UNRWA, describing the allegations as “exceptionally serious.”

Germany: Germany suspended funding and, in coordination with other donor countries, will withhold approval for further resources until the accusations are cleared.

Italy: Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani confirmed the suspension of funding, emphasizing commitment to humanitarian aid while protecting Israel’s security.

Japan: Expressing extreme concern, Japan suspended funding pending investigations into the allegations against UNRWA staff members. Active diplomatic efforts for humanitarian improvement continue.

Netherlands: Dutch Minister for Trade and Development Geoffrey van Leeuwen announced a freeze in funding during the ongoing investigation, expressing shock at the accusation.

Norway: Norway maintained funding, urging other donors to consider the wider consequences of reducing UNRWA’s support during humanitarian distress.

Switzerland: Switzerland, with a history of annual contributions, withheld a decision on the 2024 payment until accusations are clarified, emphasizing zero tolerance for support for terrorism.

United States: The US State Department suspended payments, welcoming the UN’s investigation into the allegations and calling for complete accountability for those involved in the attacks. The critical role of UNRWA in providing humanitarian support was underlined.