Full Breakdown
USAID OIG Expands Probe into UNRWA Staff Ties to Hamas and Oct. 7
5/4/2026, 11:33:05 PM
New Findings on UNRWA Staff Involvement
The United States Agency for International Development Office of Inspector General (USAID OIG) announced evidence linking four additional current or former UNRWA employees to the October 7 massacre or Hamas affiliations. The individuals have been referred to the U.S. State Department for possible suspension or debarment.
Background: UNRWA and the October 7 Attack
The October 7 attacks, carried out by Hamas militants, triggered a large-scale conflict in Gaza. UNRWA, a United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees, has faced criticism from Israeli officials for alleged Hamas infiltration. The investigation builds on earlier USAID OIG actions targeting UNRWA personnel. The situation raises concerns about aid reaching those in need.
Key Individuals and Entities
- USAID Office of Inspector General – independent oversight body conducting the investigation.
- UNRWA – United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees.
- Hafez Mousa Mohammed Mousa – former UNRWA school principal, operative of Hamas’s East Jabalya Battalion; received a 10-year debarment.
- Faisal Ali Mussalem al-Naami – UNRWA social worker accused of abducting Yonatan Samerano’s body on October 7.
- U.S. State Department – may impose suspension or debarment.
Data Summary
- Four UNRWA staff members under investigation for participation in the October 7 massacre or Hamas ties.
- Twenty-one individuals have been suspended or debarred for the attacks or Hamas affiliations.
- Hafez Mousa Mohammed Mousa received a 10-year debarment, the longest penalty to date.
Official Statements & Responses
A USAID OIG spokesperson emphasized the agency’s commitment to prevent individuals linked to terrorism from receiving U.S. taxpayer funding. The statement underscored the need to safeguard aid delivery to legitimate beneficiaries in Gaza.
Criticism of UNRWA
Israeli officials argue that UNRWA failed to remove Hamas operatives from its staff and facilities, compromising the agency’s neutrality and jeopardizing humanitarian assistance.
On-the-Ground Allegations
Reporter Almog Boker reported a released hostage said they were held by a UNRWA teacher. UNRWA social worker Faisal Ali Mussalem al-Naami is alleged to have taken Yonatan Samerano’s body during the October 7 events.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
USAID OIG has not disclosed the names of the four staff members under investigation, limiting verification of the allegations. The source also lacks details on the outcomes of the State Department’s referral process.
What’s Next
The U.S. State Department is expected to review the referrals and decide whether suspension or debarment will be taken. Further USAID OIG investigations may examine additional UNRWA personnel.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The USAID Office of Inspector General, through its active and ongoing investigations, is firmly committed to preventing the circulation of Hamas and other terrorists across aid organizations in Gaza. American taxpayers should not fund the salaries of those who engage in terrorist activity and deprive aid from reaching those in need.” — USAID OIG spokesperson
