Irish Examiner view: Ireland is right to continue funding UNRWA in Gaza

The revelation that some UNRWA members participated in Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel is a grievous setback. But Ireland is right to continue funding its humanitarian efforts

Nine countries have paused funding to the UNRWA aid agency providing vital support to the civilian population amid Israel's continued action against Gaza. Picture: Fatima Shbair/AP

The revelation that some of the members of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) participated in the October 7 Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel is a grievous setback for aid workers, volunteers, and NGOs on humanitarian missions in Gaza and elsewhere.   

Those who provide assistance and compassion in conditions of great danger rely on the perception that they are honest brokers, operating in zones of conflict between competing forces. Acceptance of that narrative is fundamental to the ability to provide help. Evidence that some personnel are also participants in violence is hugely damaging.