NEW YORK, Jan 28: United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres issued a plea on Saturday for donor states to ensure the continued operation of the UN Palestinian Refugee Agency (UNRWA). This appeal comes after several countries suspended funding due to allegations of UNRWA staff involvement in Hamas' October 7 attack on Israel.

Guterres acknowledged the concerns raised by donor countries, expressing his horror at the accusations. He emphasized the need for these governments to guarantee the continuity of UNRWA's operations, despite the ongoing investigation into the alleged staff involvement in the attack.

Israel accused multiple UNRWA staff members of participating in the Hamas attack, prompting key donor nations, including the United States, Britain, Canada, and Switzerland, to halt or consider suspending their contributions. UNRWA responded by terminating several staff members implicated in the accusations and committing to a thorough investigation.

In response to Israel's allegations, Guterres stressed that while any proven wrongdoing by staff members should have consequences, the tens of thousands of individuals working for UNRWA in challenging humanitarian conditions should not be penalized.

The UN chief confirmed that 12 UNRWA employees were implicated in the accusations, with nine terminated, one deceased, and the identity of the remaining two being clarified. Despite the controversy, Guterres emphasized the importance of meeting the dire needs of the vulnerable populations served by UNRWA.

The situation adds to existing tensions between Israel and UNRWA, with the International Court of Justice ruling that Israel must prevent potential acts of genocide in the conflict and allow increased aid into Gaza. Hamas condemned Israeli threats against UNRWA and called on international organizations not to succumb to threats and blackmail.