Hamas Condemns US Board of Peace for Excluding UNRWA from Gaza Governance
Hamas has condemned the US-backed Board of Peace for refusing to collaborate with UNRWA, labeling the move a complete alignment with Israeli positions aimed at dismantling the agency. While the Board publicly stated UNRWA fails its 'litmus tests' for trusted partners, anonymous officials admitted to behind-the-scenes meetings, suggesting the agency's role is ending despite continued aid needs. Simultaneously, Israeli military operations in Gaza and the West Bank resulted in seven Palestinian deaths in 48 hours, including drone strikes and raids on universities and refugee camps.
Key points
- Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem criticized the Board of Peace for excluding UNRWA, arguing this prevents aid delivery and eliminates the Palestinian right of return.
- The Board of Peace stated on Friday that it will only work with partners who contribute to a 'deradicalized Strip,' claiming UNRWA fails these criteria, though anonymous officials confirmed private meetings with UNRWA occurred.
- Former UNRWA chief Philippe Lazzarini accused the Board of failing its mandate, noting that Israeli authorities continue to block basic aid to keep Gaza unlivable, despite grandiose plans.
- Israeli forces killed seven Palestinians in Gaza over 48 hours, including drone strikes in Nuseirat and Khan Younis, and artillery fire in central Gaza.
- In the West Bank, Israeli forces raided Birzeit University during final exams and arrested residents in Tulkarem and Bethlehem, closing military gates to western villages.
Background
This dispute follows a broader US-led peace initiative in August 2026, where Arab and Muslim states pressured the US to enforce a 15-point roadmap for Gaza. Israel had rejected the plan, insisting on Hamas disarmament before any withdrawal, while Hamas demanded an end to attacks and Israeli withdrawal as conditions for disarming. Recent Israeli raids in Gaza City in early September claimed the capture of senior Hamas security figures, intensifying the conflict despite diplomatic efforts.
Why it matters
The exclusion of UNRWA by the Board of Peace signals a potential shift in international aid structures for Gaza, directly impacting the livelihoods and rights of Palestinian refugees. This diplomatic rift, combined with ongoing military violence, highlights the fragility of the current peace framework and the deepening humanitarian crisis in the region.
What to watch
The Board of Peace may continue to marginalize UNRWA in favor of other UN agencies, while Israel maintains its blockade on aid. Hamas is likely to continue condemning the Board's stance, and military operations in Gaza and the West Bank are expected to persist, with potential further escalations in diplomatic tensions between the US, Arab states, and Israel.
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