The United Nations is reportedly considering a Holocaust education curriculum for its schools in the Gaza Strip. The plan is meeting fierce resistance from Palestinian Hamas leaders. The very vehemence of the objection, Hamas’ rejection of Israel, and Hamas’ ongoing anti-Jewish rhetoric, continue to block any real progress for peace. B’nai B’rith International President Moishe Smith and Executive Vice President Daniel S. Mariaschin have issued the following statement:

It is outrageous that the Palestinian Hamas leaders are so vehemently opposed to teaching the children of Gaza about the Holocaust. According to a statement from Hamas, "Talk about the holocaust and the execution of the Jews contradicts and is against our culture, our principles, our traditions, values, heritage and religion.”

The Holocaust is an indisputable fact. For Hamas to so adamantly oppose the teaching of it is further proof that the main obstacle for the peace that has eluded the region for far too long lies on the Palestinian side.

We call upon the United Nations to continue with its educational plans for its schools in Gaza. Only after the next generations are taught, and take the lessons of the Holocaust to heart, can we have any hope for true and lasting peace in the region.