Jerusalem, 22 October, 2026 (TPS-IL) — The Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law has urged the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate UNRWA USA for potentially violating federal law by failing to register as a foreign agent.
In a filing with the DOJ’s Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) unit, the center argues that UNRWA USA’s fundraising, lobbying, and public advocacy on behalf of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) may require registration.
The center says UNRWA USA raises tens of millions of dollars, meets with lawmakers to advocate for UNRWA, coordinates grants with the agency, and runs public relations campaigns supporting it.
According to UNRWA USA’s latest tax filing, the organization raised more than $51 million in 2024, almost all of which ultimately went to UNRWA. The allegations have not been adjudicated, and the filing does not establish a legal violation.
