UN initiated investigation into involvement of its personnel in Hamas attack on Israel
The UN agency is investigating the possible involvement of its personnel in the Hamas attack (photo: GettyImages)
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) has initiated an investigation into several employees suspected of involvement in the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, according to Reuters.
UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini revealed that the Israeli authorities provided the organization with information regarding the potential involvement of several of its employees in the heinous Hamas attacks on October 7.
"To protect the agency's ability to deliver humanitarian assistance, I have taken the decision to immediately terminate the contracts of these staff members and launch an investigation in order to establish the truth without delay," he stated.
Lazzarini did not disclose the number of employees potentially linked to the attacks or the nature of their anticipated involvement. However, he emphasized that anyone involved in terrorist acts would be held accountable.
"The Secretary-General is horrified by this news," said his spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric.
He added that the head of the UN has requested Lazzarini to investigate to ensure that any UNRWA employee involved in or supporting the attacks on October 7 is immediately dismissed and handed over for potential criminal prosecution.
Israel-Hamas war
On October 7, 2023, Hamas militants invaded Israel and, during the attack, took hundreds of people hostage. In response, the Israeli army initiated a military operation against the militants in the Gaza Strip.
Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu outlined three conditions for ending the war against Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip. According to The Wall Street Journal, Israeli forces have reportedly eliminated 20 to 30% of Hamas militants, which falls short of Israel's goal to dismantle the group.
Media reports indicate that on January 24, Israel and Hamas reached a preliminary agreement for a ceasefire lasting one month and a new deal regarding the release of hostages.
