AI. Hamas has exercised extensive control over Gaza for many years, and there is documented evidence that it has, at times, diverted resources, taxed goods, seized aid, or interfered with humanitarian operations. Aid organizations and governments have repeatedly raised concerns about these risks. At the same time: Many humanitarian organizations, including the United Nations, International Committee of the Red Cross, and established international NGOs, have systems designed to reduce diversion through monitoring, audits, and direct distribution. There is no evidence that all aid or all donated money is always seized by Hamas. Different organizations operate under different controls and face varying levels of success in getting aid directly to civilians. During periods of intense conflict, aid delivery becomes especially difficult. Warehouses have been looted by armed groups, criminal gangs, desperate civilians, and in some reported cases there have been allegations involving Hamas members. The situation is chaotic, making oversight extremely challenging. Because of these concerns, many people prefer to donate to well-established humanitarian organizations rather than directly to local entities. They hope their donations are more likely to reach civilians, although no delivery system in an active war zone can guarantee that every item reaches its intended recipient. So the statement that "money is always seized by Hamas" goes beyond what the available evidence supports. A more accurate statement would be:
