Fatah and Hamas: the New Palestinian Factional Reality (CRS Report for Congress)
| Release Date |
March 3, 2006 |
| Report Number |
RS22395 |
| Report Type |
Report |
| Authors |
Aaron D. Pina, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division |
| Source Agency |
Congressional Research Service |
Summary:
For the first time in its history, the Palestinian parliament is set to be led by Hamas,which the United States and European Union have designated a foreign terroristorganization. Although some lauded the generally free and fair election in January 2006,others criticized the outcome and accused Hamas of "hijacking" democracy. This reportprovides an overview of the new political realities in the West Bank and Gaza after theelection, the challenges Fatah and Hamas face, and possible implications for U.S. policy. For more information on the Palestinians, see CRS Report RL33269, Palestinian Elections, by Aaron D. Pina, CRS Issue Brief IB91137 The Middle East Peace Talks, by Carol Migdalovitz, and CRS ReportRS22370, U.S. Assistance to the Palestinians, by Jeremy M. Sharp.
