Critics argue that the decision to suspend UNRWA funding in the Middle East is a step in the right direction, but falls short of what is needed
The Biden Administration’s Foreign Policy in the Middle East: A Strategic Rethink Needed
The Biden administration’s foreign policy in the Middle East is in need of a strategic rethink and fresh ideas. In this captivating series, “Middle East Mirage,” the Washington Examiner will delve into the administration’s shortcomings in Iran engagement, the Israel-Palestinian conflict, the push for a two-state solution, and the necessary reform within the United Nations, particularly UNRWA. In Part Two, we will examine the administration’s relationship with UNRWA and the U.N.
UNRWA’s Alleged Ties to Hamas Raise Concerns
In the wake of Hamas’s brutal massacre of Israelis on October 7, the United Nations agency in the Palestinian territories, UNRWA, faced renewed scrutiny for its alleged connections to the U.S.-designated terrorist group responsible for the deadliest attack in the country’s history.
The Biden administration has publicly supported UNRWA’s long-term mission due to its crucial role in delivering aid to Palestinian citizens. However, last month, the administration, along with roughly half of the countries and entities that fund the agency, decided to suspend contributions when allegations emerged that about a dozen employees had participated in the attack.
For some, particularly conservatives, the decision to suspend funding was long overdue and a necessary step towards holding the agency and the wider U.N. accountable for reform. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID), the ranking member on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, stated, “UNRWA has ceased to be effective, and worse, it violates the first principle of humanitarian aid: do no harm. The costs of keeping UNRWA around far outweigh the benefits. Disbanding the organization is the only solution.”
Despite the temporary halt in funding, the Biden administration has emphasized the overall importance of UNRWA, which has provided lifesaving aid to Palestinians long before the recent conflict. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated, “No one else can play the role that UNRWA’s been playing, certainly not in the near term. No one has the reach, the capacity, the structure to do what UNRWA’s been doing. And from our perspective, it’s important — more than important; imperative — that that role continues.”
However, concerns remain about the implications of suspended funds for the devastated Palestinian population. The war has already resulted in the displacement of approximately 75% of Gaza residents, over 25,000 deaths, and countless injuries. Additionally, reports indicate that 10% of UNRWA’s staff in Gaza have ties to Islamist militant groups.
Partisan Divide on UNRWA Funding Suspension
The issue of suspending UNRWA funding has highlighted a partisan split, with Republicans largely supporting the move as overdue and Democrats expressing concerns about the humanitarian impact on the civilian population in Gaza. During a congressional hearing, Representative Chris Smith (R-NJ) stated, ”There has long been massive and irrefutable evidence of UNRWA’s extensive complicity and cooperation in Hamas’s antisemitic genocidal hate campaign.” In contrast, Representative Susan Wild (D-PA) emphasized the need for reform while ensuring that innocent civilians in Gaza do not suffer further.
Several countries, including Germany, Japan, France, and the United Kingdom, have followed the U.S.’s lead and suspended aid to UNRWA. The U.S. provided over $340 million to UNRWA in 2022, making it the largest donor. However, the suspended funds only amount to approximately $300,000.
Rich Goldberg, an adviser with the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, argued that UNRWA’s support for Hamas is a deliberate feature and described the agency as a “horror show.” He suggested that other entities, such as the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees and the World Food Programme, could take over UNRWA’s role.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, aligned with the U.S. conservative viewpoint, has called for an end to UNRWA’s mission. Established in 1949, UNRWA was created to provide aid and relief for Palestinian refugees. However, concerns about the agency’s educational materials promoting antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiments have long been raised.
The future of UNRWA remains uncertain, with the agency warning that it will not be able to continue operations beyond February if funding does not resume. Dissolving UNRWA and delegating its tasks to other international entities is a complex process that may take time, leaving the civilian population in Gaza vulnerable.
While the Biden administration’s decision to suspend funding reflects concerns about UNRWA’s alleged ties to Hamas, the overall importance of providing aid to Palestinians remains a priority. Striking a balance between accountability and humanitarian assistance is crucial in navigating the complex challenges in the Middle East.
What reforms need to be made within UNRWA to ensure that funds are directed towards legitimate humanitarian purposes?
Jor bipartisan support for holding UNRWA accountable and ensuring that U.S. taxpayer dollars are not inadvertently supporting terrorism. This suspension of funding is a necessary step in ensuring that reforms are made within the agency and that funds are directed towards legitimate humanitarian purposes.”
On the other hand, Democrats such as Representative Andy Levin (D-MI) have expressed concern about the potential humanitarian consequences of suspending funding. Levin stated, “While it is important to hold UNRWA accountable for any wrongdoing, we must also consider the impact on the innocent Palestinian civilians who depend on UNRWA for their basic needs. Suspending funding without a clear alternative plan in place could exacerbate an already dire humanitarian situation.”
The partisan divide on this issue reflects broader divisions within the Biden administration’s approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the Middle East as a whole. While some argue for a more cautious and measured approach, focusing on diplomacy and multilateral engagement, others support a more assertive stance that prioritizes U.S. interests and security concerns.
The Need for a Strategic Rethink
The situation in the Middle East, particularly the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, is complex and deeply rooted in historical grievances and geopolitical dynamics. Over the years, various administrations have attempted to broker peace and find a resolution to the conflict, with limited success.
However, the Biden administration must take this opportunity to conduct a strategic rethink of its approach. The temporary suspension of funding to UNRWA provides an opportunity to reassess the effectiveness of the agency and determine whether it is truly serving the interests of the Palestinian people.
Furthermore, the administration should consider broader reforms within the United Nations, particularly as it relates to the treatment of Israel. Critics argue that the UN has unfairly targeted and demonized Israel, leading to a lack of trust and cooperation between the parties involved in the conflict.
A strategic rethink should also involve a reevaluation of the United States’ relationship with key regional players, such as Saudi Arabia and Iran. The Biden administration’s efforts to re-engage with Iran, particularly through the revival of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), have faced criticism for potentially legitimizing a regime known for its human rights abuses and support for terrorism.
In conclusion, the Biden administration’s foreign policy in the Middle East requires a strategic rethink and fresh ideas. The suspension of funding to UNRWA raises important questions about the agency’s effectiveness and its alleged ties to terrorist groups. It is imperative that the United States, along with its allies, takes a comprehensive approach to addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the broader challenges in the region. Only through a well-thought-out strategy can sustainable peace and security be achieved in the Middle East.
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