Finland to Halt UNRWA Aid by the End of 2026
Finland has decided to cut aid to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East following allegations of ties to Hamas and ongoing investigations.
Due to allegations and investigations regarding ties to Hamas, Finland has announced that it will terminate its aid to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) by the end of 2026.
Finland's Decision to Cut Aid
The Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs confirmed that the agreement with UNRWA will expire at the end of 2026, while stating that no decision has yet been made regarding international partners for next year's support.
Growing International Funding Cuts
Finland has joined the countries cutting financial support to UNRWA, following the United States and Sweden, which had previously halted their aid. The US had completely stopped aid in February 2025, and Sweden in December 2024.
Investigations and Allegations
UNRWA remains under scrutiny over allegations of connections with administrators in Gaza. The USAID OIG is investigating approximately 1,500 UNRWA members on suspicion of participation in terrorist activities and has reported 108 personnel to the Department of State.
UN Reaction and Statements
Stéphane Dujarric, spokesman for the UN Secretary-General, stated that UNRWA has taken note of the decision, expressed gratitude for past support, and urged member states to support the agency's work.