U.N. Palestinian Refugee Agency Chief Denies Knowledge of Employee's Hamas Ties

The head of the U.N. Palestinian refugee agency, Philippe Lazzarini, denied knowledge of an employee's Hamas affiliation and urged states to counter Israeli attacks on the agency. Israel's parliament is moving to label the organization as a terrorist body. UNRWA faces severe funding shortages amid ongoing conflicts.

The head of the U.N. Palestinian refugee agency, Philippe Lazzarini, has denied prior knowledge of allegations that Fateh Sherif Abu el-Amin, an employee of the agency, was a Hamas commander in Lebanon. Abu el-Amin was killed in an Israeli strike in southern Lebanon along with family members, according to Hamas, which made the announcement on Monday.

Lazzarini, speaking in Geneva, revealed that Abu el-Amin had been under investigation and suspension from UNRWA since March over political allegations. Lazzarini called for international support against Israeli attacks on the agency, which faces significant reputation and operational challenges.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has long criticized UNRWA, leading to calls for its dismantlement. In light of these pressures, Lazzarini revealed that the agency faces an $80 million funding gap for this year, with 2025 also appearing bleak due to Europe cutting aid budgets. Established in 1949, UNRWA provides relief to Palestinian refugees throughout the Middle East, including up to 250,000 in Lebanon.

(With inputs from agencies.)