Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant (Likud) responded to the US announcement that it would suspend funding for UNRWA, the United Nations body operating in Gaza which is now controlled by Hamas.
“Thank you to the US Administration for your leadership and taking an important step in holding UNRWA accountable," Gallant said.
"At least a dozen UNRWA employees participated in the horrific attack conducted on October 7th - these are ‘humanitarian workers,’ with salaries paid for by international donations, with blood on their hands.
"Major changes need to take place so that international efforts, funds, and humanitarian initiatives don’t fuel Hamas terrorism and the murder of Israelis."
He emphasized, "Terrorism under the guise of humanitarian work is a disgrace to the UN and the principles it claims to represent.”
Meanwhile, the European Union's High Representative Josep Borrell responded to the statements noting that UNRWA staff were involved in the October 7 massacre.
"We are extremely concerned by allegations of UNRWA staff involvement in the 7th October terrorist attacks in Israel," Borrell said in a statement. "The EU reiterates its strongest condemnation of the attacks by the Hamas terrorists against Israel, which have no justification."
"UNRWA has been playing a vital role over many years supporting vulnerable Palestinian refugees in accessing vital services such as education and health, and is a crucial partner of the international community, including the EU.
"We are in contact with UNRWA, expect it to provide full transparency on the allegations and to take immediate measures against staff involved. The Commission will assess further steps and draw lessons based on the result of the full and comprehensive investigation."