Rima Hassan, a Syrian-born french politician who supports Hamas (video clip)

Doctors Without Borders Accused of Pro-Hamas Bias Over Political Ties

Details
The Judean Staff
International

The recent examination of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) France (Doctors Without Borders) by Le Journal du Dimanche (JDD) has revealed troubling insights, suggesting that MSF France may be aligning itself with pro-Hamas narratives, particularly since the eruption of conflict in October. At the heart of this narrative shift is Rima Hassan Mobarak, a French-Palestinian politician and activist whose recent ascent to the European Parliament has coincided with her involvement in MSF, sparking questions over the NGO’s political orientation.

The Rise of Rima Hassan: An Activist’s Influence

Rima Hassan Mobarak’s journey from a refugee camp in Aleppo to the European Parliament is undeniably remarkable, yet her political trajectory and affiliations have raised eyebrows. At 32, she’s already established herself as a force within French-Palestinian political circles. As founder of the Action Palestine France collective and a staunch supporter of Palestinian causes, she has drawn both praise and criticism.

Last year, Forbes acknowledged her as one of "40 exceptional women who have marked the year," but this accolade soon turned controversial. President of the Representative Council of French Jewish Institutions (CRIF), Yonathan Arfi, denounced her as “justifying” Hamas' violent actions on October 7, a stance echoed by public figures such as television presenter Arthur, who accused her of “apologizing for terrorism.”

In response to these condemnations, Hassan has doubled down, filing defamation suits and confronting her critics head-on. Her supporters argue she is defending her heritage, yet others warn that her rhetoric echoes extremist sentiments. The controversy reached new heights when members of the Renaissance Party, President Macron’s political faction, proposed stripping her of her parliamentary immunity, citing her participation in pro-Hamas demonstrations where placards celebrated Hamas leaders.

MSF’s Controversial Role: From Humanitarian Aid to Political Advocacy?

Since its founding in 1971, MSF has evolved from a medical aid organization to a global behemoth with operations in over 90 countries. However, critics argue that MSF France has veered from its core humanitarian mission into dangerously partisan territory. While the organization continues to provide critical support in conflict zones, recent allegations suggest that its activities in Gaza may be heavily biased, even echoing pro-Hamas perspectives.

MSF's unchecked dependency on local collaborators in Gaza has fueled misinformation. A notorious example occurred when MSF promoted the story of an Israeli airstrike on Al-Ahli Hospital, which was later disproved as a failed Hamas rocket strike. Despite mounting evidence, MSF’s senior management reportedly disregarded alerts from field doctors about hospitals like Al-Shifa being co-opted by Hamas. According to a former MSF doctor, parts of Al-Shifa were sealed off by militants, though MSF leadership dismissed these claims.

When challenged on this apparent politicization, MSF France described the investigation as “irresponsible,” accusing the publication of amplifying “Israeli rhetoric.” Yet, the NGO’s defensive posture has done little to silence former senior officials who feel MSF has strayed from its neutrality.

Former Members Speak Out: Accusations of Complicity and Extremist Links

The critiques against MSF are not solely external; former members within the organization have also expressed dismay. Alain Destexhe, a former MSF secretary general, published a damning report accusing MSF of compromising its neutrality and, by association, of abetting Hamas. His report scrutinized social media activities of MSF employees, finding numerous instances where staff voiced support for Hamas, undermining the organization’s official stance of neutrality. Destexhe’s findings include disturbing connections between MSF and alleged terrorist sympathizers, such as Fadi Al-Wadiya, a member of the Islamic Jihad linked to rocket manufacturing.

The issue of extremism within MSF extends to Ghassan Abu Sitta, a doctor who has vocally condemned Israel in international media. Abu Sitta’s statements have sparked widespread backlash, leading to restrictions on his travel within the Schengen Zone due to accusations of promoting terrorism and antisemitism. Despite these controversies, he remains a prominent figure within MSF’s network, even invited to testify before the French Senate. The fact that such individuals hold prominent roles within MSF France’s orbit has raised difficult questions for a Nobel Peace Prize-winning organization.

Financial Power and Impunity: The Unassailable Influence of MSF France

For an NGO lauded globally, MSF France’s financial base is remarkably secure. Ninety-eight percent of its revenue derives from private sources, with support from notable corporations, foundations, and even local municipalities. This financial independence has rendered MSF virtually untouchable, even in the face of accusations implicating it with extremist elements. With annual budgets exceeding half a billion euros, MSF wields considerable influence, which critics argue grants it impunity. In recent years, the organization’s budget has soared, supported by a mix of commercial giants like Air France and charitable bodies such as the L'Oréal Fund for Women.

MSF’s Political Future: Humanitarian Aid or Political Actor?

In its original conception, MSF was a lifeline for those in crisis, a humanitarian intervention devoid of political ambitions. Today, however, its legacy is shadowed by internal turmoil and external controversies. As allegations of partisanship mount, MSF must confront the risk of irreparable damage to its reputation as a humanitarian beacon. For an organization that claims neutrality, MSF France’s growing alignment with figures like Rima Hassan may ultimately jeopardize its standing, casting doubt on whether it remains a force for good or has become an inadvertent player in a dangerous geopolitical landscape.

Sign Up For The Judean Newsletter

 I agree with the Terms and conditions and the Privacy policy

About Us

The Judean is a weekly digital blog highlighting Israel's vibrant Democracy, rich culture, and complex history. Through compelling op-eds, select news stories, our celebrated Explainers and featured articles about history, archaeology and culture, The Judean brings the real Israel into focus. 'From The River To The Sea' Israel is truly free.
Modi'in, Israel 71702
info@thejudean.com