BRUSSELS: The European Commission said Friday that it was to begin releasing 105 million euros in aid to Palestinians, bypassing the Hamas-led government, with the first funds to be paid out by early July.The Middle East diplomatic Quartet - the EU, United Nations, United States, and Russia - endorsed on Sunday the new funding "mechanism" for cash-strapped Palestinians that will distribute money without reaching Hamas, which refuses to renounce violence or recognize Israel.
External Relations Commissioner Benita Ferrero-Waldner said: "The temporary international mechanism will bring relief addressing urgent basic needs, and the EU is making good on its promises to continue as a reliable partner for the Palestinian people. "We would be able to do more for the Palestinians if their government committed itself to seeking peace by peaceful means," she added.