USAID Watchdog Refers 108 UNRWA Staff for Suspension Over Oct. 7 Ties
A federal inspector general has referred more than 100 UNRWA employees for suspension or debarment from U.S. funding after linking them to the October 7, 2023 attack. The action follows an expanded probe that began in March.
New York PostThe referrals cite participation in the October 7, 2023 attack that killed 1,200 people in Israel, including 46 U.S. citizens, or affiliation with Hamas' military wing. Among those referred were school principals, teachers, security personnel, and medical professionals.
One deputy school principal also served as an al-Qassam deputy commander, while another was a squad leader in a Khan Younis brigade. Five employees worked as teachers while holding military or intelligence positions with Hamas or affiliated groups. One teacher moved anti-tank missiles during the attack, and other principals facilitated communications or allowed Hamas to operate positions and tunnels beneath UNRWA schools.
The report does not name the individuals beyond their professions.
The suspensions and debarments will prevent the 108 individuals from accessing U.S. foreign aid funding for the next 10 years. A total of 1,500 UNRWA staff members remain under review. The inspector general's office expanded its investigation in March.
The office stated its priority is ensuring U.S.-funded humanitarian assistance in Gaza does not reach Hamas or other foreign terrorist organizations. Previous inspector general inquiries found UNRWA funds at risk of diversion to terror groups in Gaza.
In February 2025, President Trump signed an executive order ending direct U.S. funding for UNRWA.
