UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East Slams Israel’s Disinformation Campaign

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) has strongly condemned a global advertisement campaign by the Israeli government, describing it as a disinformation effort that endangers the agency’s personnel and undermines its humanitarian work.

In a statement issued on December 4, UNRWA criticized the use of paid advertisements, including billboards and online ads, accusing the agency of links to terrorism. These campaigns raise safety concerns for staff members operating in conflict zones like Gaza.

Reports indicate that Australians have been targeted by ads on major digital news websites accusing UNRWA of funding Hamas combatants as part of a global campaign to discredit the agency. The ads show a masked fighter with Hamas and UNRWA insignias, directing viewers to an Israeli government-linked website with further allegations. Slogans on these ads include "Paychecks for terrorists or humanitarian aid?" and "UNRWA has alternatives, it must be replaced."

“These ads are creating immense reputational damage and putting the lives of UNRWA personnel at serious risk,” the agency stated, calling for accountability from those responsible and urging stricter regulations to prevent such campaigns. The agency highlighted the precarious situation in Gaza, where 251 of its staff members have been killed since the war began, and two-thirds of its facilities have been damaged or destroyed.

UNRWA also criticized the Israeli government’s calls to dismantle the agency and label it a "terror organization," describing the effort as a dangerous precedent for a United Nations member state.

The advertisement campaign has drawn global attention, particularly as it coincides with Israel's recent decision to ban UNRWA from operating in Gaza and the West Bank.