Israel has accused Gaza civil defense spokesman Mahmoud Bassal of links to Hamas

The Israeli army has declared Mahmoud Bassal, the Gaza Civil Defense spokesman, an "active terrorist" of Hamas, based on documents obtained during operations in the territory. Bassal rejected the accusations, saying his organization was acting in accordance with international law. The Civil Defense, which provides aid in Gaza, has been criticized by the Israeli military in the prolonged conflict, which has led to significant loss of life on both sides.