UNWRA staffer’s killing – UNRWA letter

Re "Killing of U.N. Aide by Israel Bares Rift With Relief Agency" (front page, Jan. 4, [2003]):

   Israel's claims to the contrary, the initial investigation by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency confirms that there was no gunfire from the United Nations compound in which Iain Hook, a staff member, was killed by the Israeli Army.  

    The article described the Israeli government's "unofficial response" to the killing as "a damning intelligence report." But this report was never shared with Unrwa despite a specific request.

   The Israeli authorities have not provided the agency with a shred of evidence in support of the allegations that "guerrillas have hijacked" the agency's buildings, staff and operations. It is a complete falsehood to assert, as the report did, that Palestinian militants stored ammunition in United Nations schools and smuggled arms in United Nations ambulances.

   The agency maintains vigilant oversight of its facilities and operations and ensures that its staff maintains professional standards of conduct.

PAUL MCCANN

Chief, Public Information

Unrwa Headquarters, Gaza

Gaza, Jan. 6, 2003