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Victims' Families Sue UNRWA Over Alleged Terrorism Support

8/9/2025

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Summary

Victims' Families Sue

Families of victims from the October 2023 Hamas attacks are taking a stand, filing a lawsuit against the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in Washington, D.C. They accuse UNRWA of breaching U.S. antiterrorism laws by allegedly supporting Hamas and Hezbollah. UNRWA vehemently denies these allegations, labeling the lawsuit as "meritless," as scrutiny of its operations intensifies amid the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Summary

Masri Faces Lawsuit

Bashar Masri, a Palestinian-American businessman, is embroiled in a federal lawsuit filed by families of victims from the October 7 massacre, who accuse him of supporting Hamas. The lawsuit alleges his Gaza developments hid terrorist operations. Amid these serious claims, Masri has stepped down from Harvard's Dean's Council and is reportedly evading legal service in Palestinian territories, while his office maintains his innocence.

History

Historical Context

Established in 1975, the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has provided crucial support to Palestinian refugees, receiving over $1 billion annually from various governments, including the U.S. Recent lawsuits against UNRWA and Bashar Masri highlight ongoing tensions related to accusations of terrorism and humanitarian aid, complicating international relations and humanitarian efforts in Gaza amid the region's persistent conflict.

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Victims' Families Sue

Families of victims from the October 2023 Hamas attacks are taking a stand, filing a lawsuit against the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in Washington, D.C. They accuse UNRWA of breaching U.S. antiterrorism laws by allegedly supporting Hamas and Hezbollah. UNRWA vehemently denies these allegations, labeling the lawsuit as "meritless," as scrutiny of its operations intensifies amid the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

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