Finland joins US and Sweden in ending aid to UNRWA over alleged Hamas links
Finland announced it will cease its contributions to UNRWA at the end of 2026, following similar moves by the United States and Sweden amid accusations of Hamas infiltration.
Finland will end its financial support for UNRWA when one outlet agreement expires at the close of 2026, making it the latest European country to withdraw aid amid allegations of Hamas infiltration. The move follows the United States' complete funding ban in February 2025 and Sweden's cessation of contributions in December 2024, which redirected aid to other UN bodies. Recent probes by the USAID Office of Inspector General and the NGO UN Watch claim that some UNRWA employees have ties to Hamas and were involved in the Oct. 7 attacks, prompting referrals of dozens of staff for possible suspension.
Finland's foreign ministry confirmed the termination but said no decision has been made on alternative partners for delivering aid to Gaza next year. Officials declined to comment on the specific reasons for the policy shift. UNRWA expressed gratitude for the funds already provided and urged continued support from member states.
Why it matters
The funding cut could reshape how humanitarian aid reaches Gaza, influencing international aid strategies.
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