The surprise IDF attack that eliminated Issam al-Da’alis, Hamas’s head of the Government Follow-up Committee—a position functionally equivalent to Prime Minister—signifies a significant blow to the terrorist organization. Al-Da’alis’s role extended beyond mere administrative duties; he was deeply involved in Hamas’s overall policymaking. His additional position as President of the Union of UNRWA Employees in Gaza highlights the troubling extent of Hamas’s infiltration into seemingly neutral organizations.
The immediate reaction to this event is varied. Some see it as a justified response to Hamas’s actions, particularly the ongoing hostage crisis and repeated ceasefire violations. The argument is that the killing of senior Hamas figures creates an opportunity for a more amenable leadership to emerge, potentially facilitating peace negotiations, as witnessed in the past with Hezbollah.… Continue reading
Intercepting Hamas communications, Channel 12 revealed that early 2024 humanitarian aid intended for Gaza citizens was diverted to Hamas leaders. These recordings, reportedly shared with the US, detail Hamas’s close ties to UNRWA and internal disputes over aid distribution. Junior operatives complained of aid shortages while facing threats and violence from superiors for raising concerns. The intercepted conversations exposed deep resentment towards the Hamas leadership for prioritizing self-interest over the needs of its own people.
Read More
Trump’s decision to order a US withdrawal from the UN Human Rights Council and halt funding for UNRWA is a move sparking considerable debate. The very premise of the US’s presence on the council is being questioned; some argue the council’s actions don’t align with its stated goals, suggesting a fundamental disconnect between its principles and practice.
This action is seen by some as a step towards greater American isolationism, a policy with a historically dubious track record. The potential impact on international relations is a major concern. The notion that supporting human rights is intrinsically linked to promoting freedom is countered by those who see it as an obstacle to national interests or a politically charged concept.… Continue reading
Emily Damari spoke with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Friday, detailing her experience being held in UNRWA facilities after being shot twice on October 7th. Despite her injuries, she was denied access to necessary medical care. This conversation highlighted concerns about the provision of adequate medical treatment within UN facilities. The incident underscores potential failures in the protection of civilians within UNRWA’s operational areas.
Read More
During her Senate confirmation hearing, Elise Stefanik affirmed her commitment to advancing Trump’s “America First” agenda and unwavering support for Israel, including endorsing the view that Israel possesses a biblical right to the entire West Bank. She pledged to audit UN funding, counter China’s influence, and bolster support for Israel, marking a significant departure from the Biden administration’s approach. Stefanik’s stance aligns with other Trump appointees who have voiced similar views on Israeli settlements and the Palestinian territories. This includes advocating for an assessment of UN agencies and opposing funding for UNRWA.
Read More
UNRWA ‘knowingly’ let Hamas infiltrate, per UN Watch report. This assertion, coming from UN Watch, a group often criticized for its pro-Israel bias, has ignited a firestorm of debate. The report’s claims are undeniably serious, alleging that UNRWA, the UN agency responsible for Palestinian refugees, allowed Hamas infiltration not accidentally, but deliberately. This isn’t a new accusation; many have voiced similar concerns for years, pointing to UNRWA’s operations in Gaza as effectively serving as Hamas’s social services arm.
The sheer gravity of the allegation – that a UN agency knowingly facilitated the activities of a designated terrorist group – demands serious attention.… Continue reading
Following the October 7th Hamas attack and subsequent investigations revealing UNRWA employee complicity, the Knesset passed legislation banning the organization from operating in Israeli territory. This effectively halts UNRWA activities in the West Bank and Gaza, severely impacting humanitarian aid for Palestinians. While Israeli officials view this as a blow against Hamas, UN officials and aid recipients warn of catastrophic consequences for the already vulnerable population. Supporters of the ban argue that UNRWA is more of a Hamas arm than a humanitarian organization, and its closure is a vital step in combating terrorism.
Read More
Palestinian armed actors seized control of a UNRWA health center in Jenin, preventing UNRWA staff from accessing the facility. This action, occurring amidst ongoing Palestinian Authority security operations and a volatile security situation, represents a blatant disregard for UN premises and severely undermines UNRWA’s service provision in the camp. The health center had been repeatedly restored with international funding following damage from previous Israeli security operations. This incident follows increased terrorist activity in the West Bank, prompting Israeli military concerns about a third front.
Read More
Sweden’s recent decision to cease funding the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) is a significant development that warrants closer examination. This move, announced by a Swedish minister, reflects growing international concerns about the agency’s effectiveness and alleged complicity in perpetuating the Palestinian refugee crisis.
The central issue surrounding UNRWA is its unique approach to refugee status. Unlike other UN refugee agencies, which aim for the swift resettlement of displaced populations, UNRWA seemingly perpetuates the refugee status across generations of Palestinians. This arguably undermines efforts towards lasting solutions and could be interpreted as keeping the Palestinian conflict perpetually inflamed.… Continue reading
Records seized by Israel reveal a disturbing pattern: the presence of Hamas operatives within the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) school system. The sheer scale of this infiltration is shocking; reports indicate at least 24 UNRWA employees across 24 different schools held membership in Hamas or Islamic Jihad. This wasn’t a localized incident; it points to a systemic problem deeply embedded within UNRWA’s structure.
This revelation casts a harsh light on the UN’s claims of impartiality and raises serious questions about its oversight mechanisms. The UN’s Office of Internal Oversight Services’ report, while acknowledging some instances of potential Hamas involvement among UNRWA staff, notably failed to consider significant evidence provided by Israel regarding alleged membership in Hamas’ armed wing.… Continue reading
Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker