However, he made clear Ireland did not intend to follow the likes of the US and UK in suspending funding to the agency. UNRWA is playing a central role in providing aid for Gazans amid the ongoing Israeli offensive in the enclave. The agency’s chief Philippe Lazzarini said it had terminated contracts with “several” employees and ordered an investigation after Israel provided information alleging they played a role in the Hamas assault. As well as the UK and US, Australia, Italy and Canada have also temporarily paused funding for UNRWA. In a post on X, the Tanaiste said Ireland had “no plans to suspend funding for UNRWA’s vital Gaza work”.

Source: The Herald January 28, 2024 07:57 UTC