Canada has announced the suspension of its funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). This decision comes amid an ongoing investigation into allegations of involvement of some UNRWA staff in attacks by Hamas. The Canadian government, like several other countries, has raised concerns about the potential diversion of UN aid to Hamas, which is recognized as a terrorist organization by Canada and other nations.
This move marks a significant shift in Canada’s approach to funding UNRWA. Previously, the Conservative government under Stephen Harper had cut off funding in 2010 due to concerns about the agency’s ties to Hamas. However, funding was resumed in 2016 under the Liberal government.
The suspension of funding by Canada aligns with similar actions taken by other countries, including the United States, in response to the recent developments and allegations against UNRWA staff members.