Hamas Diverts Humanitarian Aid in Gaza as EU Announces Reconstruction Funding

European Union officials announced a new reconstruction package of nearly €900 million for Gaza, while urging stricter oversight after evidence emerged that Hamas has repurposed EU‑funded water pipes and other construction materials into rocket casings.

A senior United Nations official rebuked Hamas for repeatedly obstructing aid deliveries, citing a recent incident in northern Gaza where armed personnel breached a food distribution point, entered a World Food Programme warehouse and assaulted two truck drivers. Hamas claimed the actions were a law‑enforcement response to smuggled items, but the UN warned the pattern endangers humanitarian workers and hampers life‑saving assistance.

The reports underscore ongoing challenges in delivering aid to the Palestinian enclave, where the governing militant group is accused of diverting supplies to sustain its military capabilities.