Written question asked by Gregory Campbell (Democratic Unionist Party) on Tuesday, 30 January 2024, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 2 February 2024 (named day). It was answered by David Rutley (Conservative) on Friday, 2 February 2024 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Middle East: UN Agencies

Question: To ask the Minister of State, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, if he will make representations to the UN on the potential steps it can take to ensure it has the confidence of donor nations in relation to the operations of its relief and works agencies in the Middle East.

Answer: We are appalled by allegations that United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) staff were involved in the 7 October attack against Israel, a heinous act of terrorism that the UK Government has repeatedly condemned. We are pausing any future funding of UNRWA whilst we review these concerning allegations. We are looking to our partners in the UN to carry out a robust and comprehensive investigation. In the meantime, we are getting on with aid delivery through funding multiple implementing partners including other UN agencies and international and UK NGOs. This support is helping people in Gaza get food, water, shelter and medicines.

Secondary information