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The Day · Friday 12 December 2025

Filed 13:04 · Palestine time (UTC+2) · Gaza

09:53–13:13Midday

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US Moves to Impose Terrorism-Linked Sanctions on UNRWA

The United States is considering the imposition of terrorism-related sanctions on the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). The move signals a potential escalation in measures targeting the agency. No further details have been officially released.

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 considering implementing terrorism-related sanctions on the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). The development, based solely on internal deliberations reported within Washington, points to a potential shift in US policy regarding the agency, which operates across several areas including Gaza, the West Bank, and other locations.

UNRWA, responsible for providing relief and support to Palestinian refugees, has not publicly responded to the possible move. From its side, the agency continues its operations amid ongoing regional challenges. Meanwhile, the US administration has yet to confirm whether the sanctions will be enacted or under what frameworks they would proceed.

The consideration of terrorism-related sanctions indicates a significant development in the longstanding relationship between the US and UNRWA. Observers note that any such action could have direct implications on UNRWA’s operational capabilities and its presence in areas such as Gaza and the West Bank.

In addition, the move may affect other international bodies engaged in humanitarian work linked to the agency. Analysts monitoring the situation emphasize the need for clarity regarding the motivations and expected outcomes behind any sanctions designation. However, at this stage, the US has only confirmed that the matter is under consideration, with no formal decisions disclosed.

Resistance-affiliated voices have previously expressed concerns over attempts to isolate or weaken institutions seen as supportive of Palestinian rights. The current deliberation by the US adds another layer of scrutiny to UNRWA’s future, particularly in regions bearing the brunt of occupation and displacement.

Furthermore, the discourse surrounding the potential sanctions is unfolding amid broader tensions involving humanitarian access and institutional legitimacy in Palestinian territories. No official narrative from the UN or affiliated parties has emerged at the time of reporting.

Until now, the status of UNRWA remains unchanged, and its programs continue to function under existing mandates. The international community watches closely as the US weighs its next steps regarding the possible application of terrorism-related designations against the agency.

12 Dec, 13:04

The rest of the day

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