US considers terrorism-related sanctions on UNRWA

Palestinians and UN workers examine the destroyed makeshift tents and shelters after Israeli attack hits a United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) school, killing and injuring many in Nuseirat Refugee Camp of Deir al-Balah, Gaza on July 15, 2024. [Abed Rahim Khatib – Anadolu Agency]

Two informed sources said that officials in the administration of US President Donald Trump are holding advanced discussions on possible terrorism-related sanctions against the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), raising serious legal and humanitarian concerns within the US Department of State.

UNRWA operates in Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, Jordan, and Syria, where it provides education, healthcare, social support, and shelter for millions of Palestinians.

Senior officials in the United Nations and the Security Council describe UNRWA as the backbone of humanitarian assistance in Gaza, where two years of deadly Israeli military operations have generated a severe humanitarian crisis.

It is not yet clear whether the current US discussions focus on sanctioning the entire agency, specific UNRWA officials, or parts of its operations. US officials also do not appear to have agreed on the exact type of sanctions that could be imposed.

READ: UNRWA says Israeli raid on East Jerusalem compound violated UN privileges, immunities

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