Senator Collins’ Statement on UNRWA Alleged Involvement in October 7 Terrorist Attacks Against Israel

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Vice Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee and Subcommittee on Defense, released the following statement on allegations that employees of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) participated in the horrific attacks on Israelis on October 7, 2023:

“The allegations that American foreign assistance supported those who engaged in terrorism against Israel are appalling.  In addition to suspending funding to UNRWA, the Department of State should immediately conduct a thorough investigation into these allegations and demand accountability from UNRWA. 

“United States funding for UNRWA should not continue until Congress and the American people have full confidence that UNRWA is not employing individuals who participate in acts of terrorism, and UNRWA facilities are not being used to support terrorism or violence against Israel. 

“The Administration needs to explain to Congress how humanitarian assistance for Gaza can continue as this serious issue is being investigated.”

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