Deadly Connection: UN Worker Doubles as Hamas Commander

Imagine holding two jobs: one helping people, the other fighting a war. This was the life of Mohammad Abu Itiwi, a man who worked for the United Nations but also led a secret life as a commander for the Hamas elite force, Nukhba. On Wednesday, the Israel Defense Forces confirmed his death during one of their operations. Itiwi was no ordinary employee. He was suspected of playing a role in the deadly Hamas attack on Israel in October, which left over 370 people dead. His actions in that attack were believed to have contributed to the high death toll. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) found out about Itiwi's double life in July. Israel sent them a letter listing 100 staff members they suspected of ties to violent groups like Hamas. Itiwi was one of them.

UNRWA confirmed his death but said Israel wasn't cooperative afterwards. They had asked for more information about Itiwi to take action, but Israel didn't respond. "UNRWA takes any allegation seriously, " said Juliette Touma, the agency's communications director. "We asked Israel for more details, but we're still waiting for their response. " Hearing this, Israel demanded action from the UN. They wanted a full investigation into UNRWA employees and any connection they might have to the October attack. "Israel has asked the UN for urgent clarifications and an investigation, " said Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, an Israeli military spokesman.

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