The Russian threat was decisive: Finland signed a security agreement with Israel
Israel and Finland have signed an agreement extending and expanding their security cooperation. This follows reports that Helsinki is ending its funding for UNRWA.
Finland and Israel have secretly signed a memorandum of understanding regarding cooperation in the field of defense materials, reported Finnish broadcaster Yle.
The document establishes cooperation between the two countries in research, development, and the procurement of military products. The original protocol was formulated in 2013, and in early 2024, Finland proposed extending its validity. The new agreement increases the duration from five to ten years.
The agreement was approved in writing by the defense ministries of both countries. In its response to Finland, Israel described the relationship as a unique partnership based on shared values and interests.
Ending UNRWA funding
The announcement follows reports that Finland is ending financial support for UNRWA, according to Finland's Minister for Foreign Trade and Development, Ville Tavio.
Along with over a dozen other countries in 2024, Finland had temporarily suspended funding for the UN agency following allegations that 12 of its employees were involved in the Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7. The organization subsequently dismissed the suspected employees.
At that time, Finland was operating under a four-year agreement (2023-2026) with UNRWA, which committed to five million euros in humanitarian aid per year. Finland continued to fulfill the agreement after resuming funding in March 2024.
According to Tavio, a new potential channel for Finnish support could include a new UN reconstruction fund for Palestinian refugees.
"We are examining various options," Tavio said in a press release.
