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UN says UNICEF leading inquiry after staffer accused of spying for Israel
Summary
Reporters asked about allegations that a UNICEF staffer, Yahya (Yaha/Yahov) Lichtner, was accused of spying for Israel; the UN said UNICEF is aware, has placed the staffer on administrative leave and is taking appropriate action while the secretariat will coordinate as needed.
A reporter asked whether a UNICEF staff member identified in questions as Yahya (recorded in the transcript with several spellings) Lichtner had been accused of spying for the government of Israel and whether the Secretary‑General or the Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) were investigating. The UN spokesperson said UNICEF is aware of serious allegations and is taking appropriate action; the spokesperson added that if the allegations are true they would be inconsistent with staff obligations under the UN Charter and the standards of conduct for the international civil service.
The spokesperson said he did not have further details to share on the person's status and that UNICEF, as the employing agency, is in the lead on personnel matters. He added that the secretariat would be involved in any coordination or information sharing needed. The briefing did not provide details on whether OIOS had opened an investigation or whether the leave was with or without pay.
