The House Foreign Affairs Committee is set to launch an investigation into the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) over alleged ties to Hamas, according to reports. One member of the committee claimed that there is “extensive” evidence linking the UN agency to the terrorist organization. Rep. Darrell Issa, a Republican from California, stated that the connection between UNRWA and Hamas is deeper than previously known, emphasizing that Congress must uncover the extent of what UNRWA knew and did, as well as any potential cover-ups.

Following the Oct. 7 terrorist attack carried out by Hamas in Israel, reports regarding UNRWA's activities have raised concerns. A hostage who had been held captive by Hamas revealed that they were confined for 50 days in the attic of a UNRWA teacher, as reported by the Jerusalem Post. The incident further fueled criticism against UNRWA, which has long faced accusations of providing support to terrorists. Additionally, Hamas terror tunnels have been discovered in and around UNRWA schools, adding to the mounting concerns.

Notably, the State Department, under the Trump administration, severed ties with UNRWA in 2018, labeling it as an "irredeemably flawed operation." However, President Joe Biden decided to reinstate the relationship in June 2021. This move has drawn criticism, with Republicans expressing support for an investigation into UNRWA's alleged ties to Hamas. Rep. Brian Mast, who chairs the oversight subcommittee, indicated his support for a probe, indicating that he wishes to question UNRWA's Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini, although as a Swiss citizen, Lazzarini cannot be compelled to testify before the US Congress.

While the House does not have jurisdiction over the United Nations, it does have authority over the Department of State, which oversees the US relationship with UNRWA. The possibility of withholding funding next year has been raised by committee insiders if noncompliance is discovered. Hillel Neuer, the Executive Director of UN Watch, expressed his willingness to cooperate with the probe, emphasizing that the systemic issues within UNRWA are well-known to the State Department. The investigation aims to uncover the truth behind the alleged ties between UNRWA and Hamas, shedding light on the extent of their relationship and potential consequences for the agency's funding.