A decade-long investigation has uncovered alarming evidence of deep-rooted extremist infiltration within the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) revealing that more than 500 of its employees were allegedly involved in terrorist activities, incitement, and affiliations with militant organisations.

The findings were released by UN Watch, a Geneva based independent monitoring group, which accused the UN agency of becoming a breeding ground for radicalisation and violent extremism. According to the report, UNRWA employees were found to have promoted antisemitic content, glorified violence, and maintained ties to known terrorist groups operating in the region.

Speaking last month in Israel, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned the agency, declaring that the UN body has “become a subsidiary of Hamas.” Rubio further stated that the United States will no longer allow UNRWA to play any role in the future governance or reconstruction of Gaza, citing national security concerns and the need for institutional reform.

“The facts speak for themselves,” Rubio said. “UNRWA has been infiltrated by extremists, and until there is full accountability, it will not be part of any peace or rebuilding process.”

The investigation’s revelations have reignited global scrutiny over UNRWA’s operations, funding mechanisms, and oversight practices. Established in 1949, UNRWA was originally tasked with providing humanitarian aid, education, and health services to Palestinian refugees across the Middle East. However, over the years, the agency has faced multiple allegations of corruption, antisemitism, and links to militant groups claims the UN has repeatedly denied.

International pressure is now mounting for the United Nations to launch an internal inquiry and overhaul its vetting system for employees. Governments in the U.S., Israel, and parts of Europe are reportedly reconsidering their financial contributions to UNRWA pending further investigation.