(Intelligence and Terrorism Information Center) The 7th Fatah Congress held in Ramallah between Nov. 29 and Dec. 4, 2016, discussed strategies for dealing with Israel on the ground and in the international arena. The speeches given by Mahmoud Abbas and statements made by senior Fatah figures indicate the decision to strengthen the concept of "popular resistance," designed to create constant, controlled tension between Israel and the Palestinians in order to exert pressure on Israel. "Popular resistance," first decided upon at the 6th Fatah Congress in 2009, is not a non-violent quiet protest, as claimed by Abbas and the PA. It makes massive use of violence, especially throwing stones and firebombs, as well as stabbing and vehicular attacks. During the past year, "popular resistance" has caused the deaths of dozens of Israeli civilians and security forces. The PA and Fatah publicly support attacks carried out as part of "popular resistance" and do not consider them terrorism. They actively legitimize and aid Palestinians who carry them out by providing them with financial and media support, as well as providing aid for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails and the families of "martyrs."
2016-12-16 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive