1. Why Is Hamas' Popularity Soaring Among Palestinians in the West Bank?
- Author
-
Stern, Moran
- Subjects
GLIDING & soaring ,PALESTINIANS ,POPULARITY ,REFUSE collection ,AL-Aqsa Intifada, 2000-2005 ,MASSACRES ,ARAB-Israeli conflict - Abstract
The article discusses the increasing popularity of Hamas among Palestinians in the West Bank, despite the devastating impact of the Hamas-led assault on Israel and the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip. The rise in support for Hamas can be attributed to the perceived corruption and illegitimacy of the Palestinian Authority (PA), which has failed to provide a path towards independence and improve the personal and economic circumstances of Palestinians. The concentration of power in the hands of the aging leadership of Fatah, the dominant power in the PA, has created a centralized and quasi-authoritarian government that is viewed as collaborating with Israel instead of protecting Palestinians. The article suggests that the PA must undertake major reforms to regain legitimacy and prevent Hamas from filling the political vacuum. [Extracted from the article]
- Published
- 2024