U.N. official Ramiz Alakbarov alleges Hamas sabotaged crucial aid efforts in Gaza Strip.

A United Nations official accused Hamas of disrupting the delivery of humanitarian aid throughout the Gaza Strip. Ramiz Alakbarov, U.N. deputy special coordinator for the Middle East peace process, told Reuters that aid work was forced to halt after armed men assaulted truck drivers at a food distribution warehouse in northern Gaza. Mr. Alakbarov stated the actions place humanitarian workers at risk and complicate the provision of life-saving assistance to civilians facing severe conditions. While Hamas issued a news release denying the allegations, other sources have documented substantial aid diversion. The Israeli Security Agency estimates that Hamas has looted 60 percent of aid entering Gaza. Adding to the concerns, Palestinian Authority leader Mahmoud Abbas previously condemned Hamas-affiliated groups for looting and theft targeting aid facilities. Observers have noted that this pattern of behavior suggests a lack of interest from the group in peaceful resolution. The allegations indicate a continued struggle to ensure that necessary supplies reach the civilian population.

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