In a recent development that has reignited debates about the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), an employee of the organization was killed in an Israeli airstrike in Lebanon. The incident, which occurred 7 days ago, has brought to light complex issues surrounding the agency's operations and its relationship with militant groups.
Fatah Sharif, identified as a Hamas commander, was among those killed in the strike on Al-Buss refugee camp near Tyre, Lebanon. The camp, established in 1948, is one of 12 Palestinian refugee camps in the country. Lebanon currently hosts approximately 475,075 registered Palestinian refugees, a legacy of the 1948 Arab-Israeli conflict that led to UNRWA's establishment in 1949.
UNRWA spokesman Jonathan Fowler confirmed that Sharif had been an employee of the agency but was placed on administrative leave without pay three months ago. The suspension was due to an ongoing investigation into allegations about his political activities. This revelation has intensified scrutiny of UNRWA's hiring practices and its ability to prevent infiltration by members of militant organizations.
Israel's diplomatic mission in Geneva criticized UNRWA, stating on social media that the case "proves that there is a deep problem in @UNRWA, the way they do due diligence about who they are hiring." This criticism reflects longstanding concerns about UNRWA's operations, particularly in light of Hamas' designation as a terrorist organization by several countries.
Hamas, founded in 1987 during the First Intifada, praised Sharif for his "educational and jihadist work," describing him as "a successful teacher and an outstanding principal" for generations of Palestinian refugees. This dual characterization highlights the complex dynamics at play in refugee communities, where education and political activism often intersect.
The incident has also shed light on the challenges faced by UNRWA, which provides assistance to over 5.9 million registered Palestinian refugees. The agency operates 65 schools in Lebanon alone and is responsible for educating over 526,000 children across its areas of operation. However, UNRWA has faced frequent funding crises and budget shortfalls, complicating its mission to provide essential services.
The situation of Palestinian refugees in Lebanon remains precarious, with restrictions on their rights to work and own property. The country's history, including the civil war from 1975 to 1990 and conflicts like the 2007 Nahr el-Bared incident, has significantly impacted these communities.
Prior to the airstrike, the UNRWA teachers' union had staged protests in Beirut against Sharif's suspension, claiming it was politically motivated. About 3-4 weeks ago, during a visit by UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini, the union organized a sit-in, demanding "positive and fair outcomes" in Sharif's case.
This incident underscores the ongoing challenges in addressing the Palestinian refugee issue, which remains unresolved despite efforts like the Oslo Accords of 1993. The right of return for Palestinian refugees continues to be a contentious topic in peace negotiations, reflecting the complex historical and political landscape of the region.
As investigations into the airstrike and Sharif's activities continue, the incident serves as a reminder of the intricate challenges facing international organizations operating in conflict-prone areas, balancing humanitarian needs with security concerns.
"A successful teacher and an outstanding principal for generations of Palestinian refugees, known for his educational and jihadist work."