In a move that could have significant implications for humanitarian aid to Palestinians, the White House is bracing itself for the possibility that Congress might permanently halt funding for the United Nations relief agency, known as UNRWA. The agency has recently come under scrutiny following allegations of ties to terrorism against some of its employees.

Israel accused 12 UNRWA employees of participating in a deadly attack on southern Israel on October 7th, which resulted in the deaths of over a thousand people and the hostage-taking of around 250 others in Gaza. In response to these allegations, the United States and several other countries temporarily suspended funding for the agency.

The U.S. government has expressed its eagerness to see the results of the United Nations' investigation into the claims made against UNRWA employees before making any decisions regarding the resumption of contributions. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller stated that the administration is preparing for the possibility that Congress might permanently pause funding for UNRWA, necessitating alternative arrangements for delivering humanitarian assistance.

If the U.S. does lift its current funding pause, only $300,000 would be allocated for UNRWA, and any further funding would require approval from Congress. As the largest donor to UNRWA, the U.S. typically contributes between $300 to $400 million annually.

Despite concerns raised by Israel and others, Miller emphasized the critical role that UNRWA plays in delivering humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians, highlighting the absence of any other agency capable of taking on this responsibility.

During the funding pause, the Biden administration has been exploring alternative organizations such as UNICEF and the World Food Program (WFP) as potential sources for aid provision. However, UNRWA's extensive workforce of over 13,000 employees in Gaza underscores the agency's unique capacity to reach and assist those in need.

The issue of funding for UNRWA was also brought up in the recent passage of a $95 billion national security supplemental package by the Senate. The bill includes a provision that would block funds from being allocated to UNRWA. House Republican leadership has, thus far, resisted pressure to bring this package to a floor vote.

As the situation unfolds, the fate of UNRWA's funding remains uncertain. The U.S. government recognizes the desperate need for humanitarian assistance among the Palestinian people and is committed to ensuring its continuous delivery.