UNRWA and Hamas: A Complex Relationship

Background

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) was established in 1949 to provide assistance to Palestinian refugees displaced by the 1948 Arab-Israeli war. Hamas, an Islamist militant group, was founded in 1987 during the First Intifada, an uprising against Israeli occupation.

UNRWA operates in the Gaza Strip, West Bank, Lebanon, Syria, and Jordan, providing services such as education, healthcare, and social services to Palestinian refugees. Hamas controls the Gaza Strip and has a significant presence in the West Bank.

Allegations of Hamas Influence

In recent years, there have been allegations that Hamas has influence over UNRWA operations in the Gaza Strip. Israel has accused UNRWA of allowing Hamas to use its facilities for military purposes, such as storing weapons and launching rockets.

UNRWA has denied these allegations, stating that it maintains a strict policy of neutrality and impartiality. The agency has also stated that it has taken steps to prevent Hamas from using its facilities for military purposes.

Independent Investigations

Several independent investigations have been conducted into the allegations of Hamas influence over UNRWA. In 2015, a report by the UN Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) found no evidence that UNRWA staff had been involved in Hamas activities.

However, the report did find that Hamas had some influence over UNRWA operations in the Gaza Strip. The report recommended that UNRWA take steps to strengthen its oversight and accountability mechanisms.

Ongoing Concerns

Despite the independent investigations, concerns about Hamas influence over UNRWA continue to be raised by Israel and other critics. In 2018, the United States cut funding to UNRWA, citing concerns about Hamas influence.

UNRWA has stated that it remains committed to providing assistance to Palestinian refugees in the Gaza Strip and other areas. The agency has also stated that it will continue to take steps to prevent Hamas from using its facilities for military purposes.

Conclusion

The relationship between UNRWA and Hamas is complex and has been the subject of much debate. While there is no evidence that UNRWA staff have been involved in Hamas activities, there is some evidence that Hamas has influence over UNRWA operations in the Gaza Strip.

UNRWA has taken steps to strengthen its oversight and accountability mechanisms, but concerns about Hamas influence continue to be raised by Israel and other critics. The ongoing debate over this issue is likely to continue in the years to come.