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The Day · Friday 12 December 2025

Filed 12:49 · Palestine time (UTC+2) · Gaza

09:53–13:13Midday

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US Weighs Terrorism-Linked Sanctions Against UNRWA

The United States is reportedly considering the imposition of terrorism-related sanctions on the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). The development signals increased political and legal pressure on the international body tasked with supporting Palestinian refugees. No additional details were officially disclosed.

DEIR AL BALAH, GAZA – JULY 15: Palestinians and UN workers examine the destroyed makeshift tents and shelters after Israeli attack hits a United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) school, killing and injuring many in Nuseirat Refugee Camp of Deir al-Balah, Gaza on July 15, 2024. ( Abed Rahim Khatib – Anadolu Agency )

The United States is reportedly weighing the possibility of imposing terrorism-related sanctions on the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). The move, if finalized, could mark a significant escalation in the ongoing scrutiny and pressure faced by the agency, which serves millions of Palestinian refugees across several areas.

According to information made available, the US consideration involves potential measures linked to allegations concerning terrorism, with UNRWA at the center of deliberations. No confirmation or specific accusations have been publicly announced at this stage, and details surrounding the nature of the possible sanctions remain limited to the reported contemplation of such action.

UNRWA, a central body in the provision of education, health, and humanitarian support to Palestinian refugees, now finds itself under intensified observation, as the US evaluates possible legal and political mechanisms that could be applied in relation to terrorism issues.

Meanwhile, in areas reliant on UNRWA services, the prospect of sanctions raises questions about potential impacts on access to basic life necessities and public infrastructure support. Those in the field closely monitoring the situation await further developments amid heightened sensitivity surrounding the agency’s operations.

From its side, the agency has yet to release any public statement addressing the reported deliberations by the US administration. The lack of official comment leaves many awaiting clarification or confirmation regarding the scope and timeline of any possible action.

In addition, observers point to the potential consequences such sanctions, if implemented, could have on the broader humanitarian landscape. While no direct response has emerged from involved international bodies, the mere consideration of terrorism-related sanctions is noted as a serious step that may affect ongoing relief efforts.

UNRWA’s mandate and presence in the field remain critical for many Palestinians, and any shift in international engagement, including sanctions, is likely to raise immediate concerns among communities dependent on its services.

As discussions continue within US policy circles, the reported consideration of sanctions marks a moment of uncertainty for the fate of UNRWA’s operations. It underscores the mounting pressures surrounding organizations associated with Palestinian refugee support in the current geopolitical climate.

With no additional statements issued, and details restricted to the prospect of potential terrorism-related measures, the situation awaits further clarification from both US authorities and UNRWA representatives. Until then, the reported considerations continue to raise significant questions throughout affected regions.

12 Dec, 12:49

The rest of the day

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  • Microsoft Faces Legal Action Over Role in Israel’s Genocide in Gaza

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