French Minister Urges EU to Investigate Potential Misuse of Humanitarian Funds for Hamas
French Minister of State for European Affairs, Benjamin Haddad, has formally requested that the European Commission initiate an urgent investigation into allegations that European funds designated for non-governmental organizations in the Palestinian territories may have been redirected to Hamas.
This appeal was made in an official letter dated Tuesday, which was sent to EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell and relevant European commissioners. A copy of the letter was obtained by Agence France-Presse.
In the letter, Haddad expressed concern about reports suggesting that Hamas has been imposing restrictions on NGOs and international organizations operating in the Palestinian territories since 2020.
He noted that these allegations raise serious questions regarding the integrity of European funding and the need to protect taxpayers, who should be assured that their contributions are used solely for humanitarian purposes.
Haddad highlighted that the EU supports various humanitarian organizations in the region, including "Handicap International," "Norwegian Refugee Council," and "International Medical Corps," making the investigation into the allocation of these funds a matter of urgency.
The minister also mentioned that France, in collaboration with Austria and the Netherlands, had previously proposed measures at the European level to ensure that beneficiaries of EU funding adhere to European values.
Haddad reaffirmed France's position, stating: "France finds it unacceptable to provide European funding to organizations that may be influenced by Hamas networks while claiming to operate for humanitarian purposes."
He further added that international organizations should not be compelled to accept support from entities classified as terrorist organizations in order to provide their humanitarian services, calling for a thorough investigation into these claims.
The letter also called for actionable measures beyond the investigation, including improved transparency and stricter monitoring mechanisms for financial transactions. France specifically advocated for a "more robust funding suspension mechanism" to be activated in cases of any irregularities.
Haddad concluded with a warning, stating: "In light of these ongoing violations of rights and European values by external entities, the EU and its member states must enhance their vigilance."
This request follows Haddad's earlier appeal in May for increased oversight of European funding to prevent it from reaching groups linked to anti-Semitism or extremism.
The European Commission has not yet provided an official response to Haddad's latest letter, and observers are awaiting concrete steps to commence the requested investigation.
