Oversight of the response by U.S. Department of State (Department) and the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) to the situation in Israel, Gaza, the West Bank, and wider region is a leading priority for the Office of Inspector General (OIG). Since the October 2023 Hamas terrorist attacks, the Department substantially increased its diplomatic efforts, security assistance, and other support in the region. The ensuing conflict sparked further violence in the Middle East, heightened security concerns, added to assistance requirements in the region, and impacted Department and interagency operations.
OIG is developing a growing body of oversight work related to the conflict. We are coordinating regularly with oversight partners to promote effective coverage of leading risks associated with the broader U.S. government response. Our audits, evaluations, inspections, and other products identify needed improvements in Department and USAGM programs and activities and provide recommendations to drive corrective actions. We also investigate possible criminal, civil, and administrative misconduct related to Department and USAGM programs and activities.
OIG’s Risk‑Based Oversight and Investigations in West Bank, Gaza, and Broader Region outlines State OIG’s plan to conduct coordinated, risk‑based investigations and oversight to safeguard U.S. assistance by preventing misuse of funds, strengthening accountability, and addressing key risks across Israel, the West Bank, Gaza, and the broader Middle East region.
OIG will update our planned work, as needed, to ensure that our oversight remains relevant, timely, and responsive to key stakeholders and the changing demands of our oversight mission. Congress and the President provided dedicated funding for OIG’s related oversight activities in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026.