Austria has decided to release funds to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) that were previously blocked after allegations surfaced that some of the agency's staff were involved in attacks on Israel. This decision was made following UNRWA's presentation of an action plan to enhance its impartiality and strengthen internal reviews and monitoring of its employees.

The Austrian Foreign Ministry stated that they will release funds totaling 3.4 million euros in 2024 to UNRWA, with the initial payments expected to be made in the summer. This move by Austria comes as part of the effort to ensure that UNRWA remains committed to its principles of neutrality and accountability in its operations.

Israel had accused 12 UNRWA staff members of participating in an attack led by Hamas that sparked the Gaza war, leading to several donor countries, including Austria, freezing funding to the agency amounting to $450 million. However, Germany had recently decided to resume cooperation with UNRWA after a report by former French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonnade highlighted the steps taken by the agency to ensure adherence to neutrality standards.

As an organization, UNRWA employs a significant number of individuals, with 32,000 staff members working in the Palestinian territories and nearby regions, including 13,000 employees based in the Gaza Strip. They are primarily responsible for operating schools and providing essential social services to the Palestinian refugee population in the area, emphasizing the urgent need for continued funding to support these vital programs.. Read More Here