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The Growing Anarchy in the Palestinian Territories

(Washington Institute for Near East Policy) Mohammed Yaghi - After its humiliating defeat in the January 25 legislative elections, Fatah leaders attempted to obstruct the new Hamas-led government's ability to function. To increase internal pressure on Hamas, Fatah has declared that the Hamas government is responsible for the international isolation of the PA and the deteriorating economic situation, and has encouraged public employees to hold sit-ins and protests over delays in the delivery of salaries. Fatah members, who comprise the majority of public sector employees, have suffered the most as a result of the financial crisis, while Hamas supporters benefit from a social service network that continues to function. The international isolation of Hamas has increased the polarization of Palestinian society and exacerbated the rivalry between Fatah and Hamas. On May 7, Hamas activists responded to the assassination of one of their members by launching a shoulder-fired missile at a truck belonging to the Fatah-dominated Preventive Security Service, killing two of its passengers.
2006-04-18 00:00:00
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