UK watchdog probes charity over Hamas connections

Britain's charity watchdog is investigating new reports that a British-based charity group which the United States calls a terrorist organization has links with Palestinian operatives, the commission said Thursday. The Charity Commission said it is trying to ascertain whether Interpal, which says it provides relief and development aid to Palestinian refugees, is actually funneling funds to supporters of Hamas. "The scope of the investigation will include concerns about the potential for indirect and inappropriate links between the charity and organizations and individuals who appear to support the militant or terrorist activities of Hamas and the connected duties and responsibilities of the trustees," the commission said in a statement.