http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090204/ap_on_re_mi_ea/ml_gaza_hamas_un JERUSALEM – A U.N. spokesman says Hamas police in Gaza have seized thousands of blankets and food parcels meant for needy residents.
Spokesman Christopher Gunness says Hamas police raided a U.N. warehouse in Gaza City on Tuesday evening. He says police snatched 3,500 blankets and more than 400 food parcels.
The aid is vital now because Gazans are facing hardship after Israel's three-week military offensive against Hamas.
Hamas has ruled Gaza since it seized control of the territory in 2007. Gunness said Wednesday this is the first time Hamas has seized U.N. aid.
Israeli officials have charged that the militant group routinely confiscates supplies meant for needy Gazans.
A Hamas government spokesman was not immediately available for comment.