Mother of kidnapped hostage confronts UN: “UNRWA is the attacker, not the victim”

Samerano's son, Yonatan, was shot, abducted, and remains in captivity in Gaza, allegedly at the hands of a UNRWA employee.

During her emotional testimony, Samerano took aim at the recent claims made by the UN's Special Rapporteur on the Right to Adequate Housing, who stated that UNRWA was “under attack.” In response, Samerano made a stark and direct assertion: "No, UNRWA is not under attack. UNRWA is the attacker."

The mother explained that her son had been shot during the horrific attacks on October 7th, and after being injured, he was taken by Mohammad Abu Ittiwi, an employee of UNRWA, who then handed him over to Hamas captors. Samerano's anger and grief were palpable as she described Ittiwi’s betrayal: "A UN social worker, paid by this organization, kidnapped my son into Gaza," she said.

The tragic incident comes amidst growing concerns about UNRWA’s potential ties to Hamas. Investigations have revealed that several UNRWA staff members were involved in the October 7th massacre, including engaging in acts of violence and taking hostages. Reports have surfaced showing that at least 12 UNRWA employees participated in the attack, prompting nations such as the United States, Canada, and Germany to suspend funding to the organization.

Despite this, the UN has continued to defend UNRWA, asserting that its humanitarian mission should not be overshadowed by these accusations. For Samerano, this defense is a slap in the face, especially as the UN continues to turn a blind eye to the agency’s ties to Hamas.

Her plea to the UN was simple but devastating: "Where is my son?" Unfortunately, no official from the UN Human Rights Council or UNRWA has responded to her question, leaving the mother of the hostage in a state of agonizing uncertainty. Samerano’s question resonates not just for her, but for all the families who have had loved ones abducted or harmed in the wake of the terrorist attacks, with the UN’s silence speaking volumes.