A recent Israeli airstrike in the al-Bass refugee camp in Tyre, Lebanon, resulted in the death of Fateh Sherif, a United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) employee. Sherif, who was on suspension since March pending an investigation into his alleged political activities, was confirmed to have ties to Hamas.
According to the Israel Defense Force (IDF) and Israeli Security Agency (ISA), Sherif was responsible for coordinating Hamas' activities in Lebanon, including recruitment and weapon acquisition. His role as the principal of a UNRWA-run school allowed him to influence and recruit individuals for terrorist activities.
Despite allegations and calls for his dismissal, UNRWA had not taken action against Sherif until his suspension earlier this year. Critics, including Hillel Neuer of UN Watch, have accused UNRWA of harboring terrorist sympathizers and failing to address Sherif's involvement with Hamas.
Following Sherif's death, another airstrike in Beirut targeted leaders of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, escalating tensions in the region. Israel has vowed to continue operations against threats to its civilians, leading to concerns of a potential ground offensive.
The recent strikes have raised fears of broader conflict in the Middle East, with Iran condemning Israel's actions and President Biden emphasizing the need to avoid all-out war in the region.
