The United States is urging donors to abandon funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), citing concerns that the agency has been infiltrated by Hamas. US Ambassador Jeff Bartos accused UNRWA of being a “subsidiary of Hamas” and urged governments to stop funding UNRWA schools in Gaza, which he claimed indoctrinate children in hatred of Jews and glorify terrorism.

US Alternative to UNRWA

The US is instead promoting the Board of Peace, a US-led body created to oversee transitional governance, reconstruction, and long-term development in Gaza. The Board of Peace is seen as a more accountable and transparent alternative to UNRWA, which has been criticized for its handling of funds and alleged ties to terrorist organizations.

Despite US concerns, several European governments, including the UK and France, have reiterated their support for UNRWA. The UK announced £23 million in funding for UNRWA, while France pledged to continue its support, citing the agency’s importance in providing essential services to Palestinian refugees.

Investigation into UNRWA

Meanwhile, the Geneva-based watchdog UN Watch is calling for an investigation into allegations that UNRWA employees have ties to Hamas. The group has provided evidence of UNRWA employees supporting or being affiliated with Hamas and is urging the UN to waive the immunity of former UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini to allow for a national investigation.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.