Mississippi Gulf News

Jan 29, 2024

Congressman Mike Ezell has called on his colleagues to pass the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) Accountability and Transparency Act (H.R. 1102) following reports of UNRWA employees' involvement in the planning and execution of Hamas's October 7th attacks on Israel. Congressman Ezell, an original cosponsor of H.R. 1102, emphasized the need to defund this radical organization.

"Unfortunately, it comes as no surprise that employees of an agency with a long history of promoting antisemitism and violence were involved in Hamas's horrific attacks on Israel," said Congressman Ezell. "Taxpayers should not be funding this radical organization. It's past time to pass our UNRWA Accountability and Transparency Act."

H.R. 1102, introduced by Congressman Chip Roy on February 17, 2023, aims to implement significant reforms within UNRWA before taxpayer dollars can be allocated to the organization. Under this bill, the Biden administration would need to certify several key factors to ensure accountability and prevent the misuse of funds.

Firstly, the certification would require that no UNRWA employee is a member of a terrorist organization such as Hamas or Hezbollah, or has engaged in terrorist activities. Furthermore, it demands that UNRWA infrastructure and resources are not being used by terrorist organizations.

The bill also calls for a comprehensive financial audit of UNRWA and the implementation of a robust vetting and oversight system to prevent any diversion of resources to terrorist organizations. Additionally, it prohibits the use of anti-American, anti-Israel, or antisemitic educational materials in UNRWA schools or facilities.

Lastly, the certification ensures that no recipient of UNRWA funds is affiliated with any foreign terrorist organization and that UNRWA has no associations with financial institutions deemed complicit in financing terrorism by the United States.

By passing the UNRWA Accountability and Transparency Act, the United States can hold UNRWA accountable for its actions and ensure that taxpayer dollars are not supporting organizations involved in terrorism or promoting hatred. It is a crucial step in safeguarding American values and interests while promoting peace and stability in the region.

In conclusion, Congressman Ezell's call to pass the UNRWA Accountability and Transparency Act highlights the need for reform within the organization. The bill's provisions aim to prevent the misuse of funds and ensure that UNRWA is not supporting terrorism or spreading hate. By taking action, the United States can demonstrate its commitment to fighting against antisemitism and promoting peace in the Middle East.