Hamas brands Israeli ban on aid groups 'criminal behaviour'

Hamas on Wednesday condemned Israel's decision to ban several aid groups from operating in Gaza, urging the international community to prevent what it described as a move targeting Palestinians.

"The occupation government's decision to revoke the operating licences of dozens of international relief organisations constitutes a dangerous escalation and a blatant disregard for the humanitarian system," Hamas said in a statement.

"We call on the international community, and the United Nations in particular ... to take urgent and effective action to condemn this criminal behaviour," it added.