The EU said it is “extremely concerned” by the allegations against UNRWA staff. The U.S. said it is “extremely troubled” and has suspended funding for the agency while the charges are being investigated.

The UNRWA is expected “to provide full transparency on the allegations and to take immediate measures against staff involved,” the EU said in a statement.

Washington is reviewing “these allegations and the steps the United Nations is taking to address them,” Matthew Miller, spokesperson for the U.S. State Department, said in a statement.

“Their work has saved lives, and it is important that UNRWA address these allegations and take any appropriate corrective measures, including reviewing its existing policies and procedures,” Miller said.

The UNRWA — which was created in 1949 and operates in the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria — has been playing a crucial role in supporting vulnerable Palestinian refugees in accessing vital services such as primary and vocational education, primary health care, relief and social services