While I was looking at the Washington Post website today, I found a very interesting article about the new unity government created between Fatah and Hamas in preparation for their upcoming election. These two Palestinian factions are typically very divided on issues, so this unity is a strong step towards bringing the two sides closer together. The leader of the unity government is going to be Mahmoud Abbas. Benjamin Netanyahu has vocally opposed the alliance, even warning that it may “doom peace efforts.” I believe that the alliance will either bring the Palestinian side closer together or it will not last long enough to really accomplish anything. Hopefully future peace talks will not be doomed, as Netanyahu has warned.
Do you think that future peace talks are doomed? How do you feel about the unity government consisting of Fatah and Hamas?
I read about this as well over the weekend. It’s definitely a step strengthening the Palestinian side, which had to deal with a split leadership in the past years. I can see, however, why the Israelis are less than pleased – they do consider Hamas a terrorist organization rather than a viable political party. You’re right, I think, in being cautious in your assessment of the future. We’ll see how the collaboration works out.
By: Dr. Reuter on February 7, 2012
at 9:52 pm
It should be interesting to see how this new alliance plays out; it may work in the Palestinians’ favor because they will now be presenting a more united front than in the past. Israel has staunchly refused to negotiate with Hamas because they believe they are a terrorist group, however, they do represent a portion of the Palestinian people, no matter how small. Attempts to include Hamas in the peace process may work well for both sides, as it will make for slightly more all inclusive negotiations. The Palestinian people have been plagued by divisions for a long time and if the leaders present a more united front with normalized demands, the peace process may go smoother, as opposed to the PA making decisions and Hamas reacting negatively because they were left out of the process. But all of this is of course contingent on whether or not Netanyahu and the other Israelis even consent to bring Hamas to the table.
By: taylorballenger on February 8, 2012
at 6:19 pm