World · World News Bureau
Hamas Criticizes Peace Board Over UNRWA Exclusion in Gaza
Hamas has condemned a peace-focused organization for refusing to coordinate with the UN agency for Palestinian refugees in Gaza operations. The Palestinian faction accused the board of alignment with Israeli interests through its decision to exclude UNRWA from involvement.
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Hamas officials released a statement expressing strong opposition to what they characterized as the Board of Peace's decision to sideline the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East from ongoing relief and reconstruction activities in Gaza.
The movement contended that the exclusion of UNRWA, which has operated in Palestinian territories for decades, represents a significant departure from established humanitarian protocols and international cooperation frameworks. Hamas representatives suggested the policy shift reflects coordination with Israeli positions rather than independent humanitarian judgment.
The dispute centers on UNRWA's role in providing essential services including education, healthcare, and aid distribution to Palestinian civilians. The organization has maintained operations across Gaza despite periodic political controversies surrounding its mandate and funding.
The Board of Peace has not yet issued a detailed public response to Hamas's allegations. The controversy underscores ongoing tensions surrounding humanitarian operations in Gaza and the involvement of international agencies in Palestinian territories, with different parties holding divergent views on which organizations should lead relief efforts.