Support for Hamas growing the West Bank
In recent times, there has been a noticeable increase in the level of support for Hamas among Palestinians residing in the West Bank. A decline in support for the Palestinian Authority, which oversees this region, coincides with this shift in opinion. It is worth noting that, historically, Hamas has not enjoyed much popularity among Palestinians due to its designation as a terrorist organization by both the EU and US. However, this trend has changed significantly over the past three months, with September polls indicating that only 12% of people in the West Bank supported Hamas, while December polls reported an increase to 44%.
The impact of this change cannot be overstated, as it has led to heightened tensions and violence between Israeli Security Forces settlers and Palestinians. This situation further radicalizes the population, which views Gazans as heroes and endorses Hamas’ attack on Israel. The leadership of Mahmoud Abbas, who heads the Palestinian Authority, has become extremely unpopular, with approval ratings hovering at only 11%, according to recent poll results.
It is essential to note that these developments have far-reaching implications for peace efforts in the region and could potentially lead to further instability. As such, it is crucial that all parties involved take steps towards de-escalation and dialogue to find a lasting solution to this conflict.
Khal Shikaki recently conducted a poll, which revealed that in-person polling during the earlier this month ceasefire proved to be the most effective way to reach people because it is nearly impossible to conduct polls inside besieged territories. This survey revealed that if elections were to be held again soon, Hamas would likely emerge victorious over Fatah. This outcome can be attributed to the fact that many Palestinians reject Israeli occupation and view it as brutal oppression that has persisted for decades. As a result, they support anyone who is willing to put their lives on the line to combat such injustice from their perspective. These findings shed light on the current political climate in Palestine and highlight the ongoing struggle for liberation and self-determination in the region.
There are differing opinions regarding the significance of certain figures that have been observed. Some argue that these figures may merely reflect temporary trends or isolated victories for those who are considered underdogs, as they have managed to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds stacked against them. Such odds may be attributed to various factors, such as differences in vision concerning Palestine, where two rival factions hold opposing beliefs regarding the establishment of peace processes versus resorting to armed struggle tactics. On the other hand, there are those who maintain that these shifts indicate more permanent changes taking place within societal structures themselves—changes that extend beyond surface-level fluctuations brought about solely through external events like wars or terror attacks. Thus, it is evident that there is a diversity of perspectives when it comes to interpreting such data and its broader implications.
Now the residents of the Gaza Strip do not view the PA/Fatah as their saviors. This is primarily due to political and economic reasons, such as the inability to pay salaries caused by continuous Israeli aggression. The daily arrests and incursions into areas controlled by PA/Fatah have made them unable to protect or feed themselves adequately, forcing them to resort to extreme measures like joining ranks with Hamas instead. As a result, the long-term prospects for the region look bleak unless a major policy shift occurs immediately towards a peaceful resolution of the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians. Only then can stability and security be restored throughout the region, thereby enabling all parties involved to rebuild a better future together based upon mutual understanding and cooperation rather than continued animosity and distrust fueled by ongoing violence and hatred perpetuated by both sides in their relentless pursuit of power and dominance, even if it means sacrificing innocent human lives along the way.
It is essential that all stakeholders come together with an open mind and willingness to negotiate in good faith towards a lasting peace agreement that addresses the legitimate concerns of both Israelis and Palestinians while upholding international law and human rights standards. A comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of the conflict, including issues related to land ownership, settlements, borders, security arrangements, refugees, water resources, and Jerusalem’s status is needed. Such an approach must also involve regional actors such as Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, Iran, and others who can play a constructive role in promoting peace-building efforts.
Ultimately, achieving a just and lasting peace will require bold leadership on both sides that puts people’s interests above narrow political agendas or short-term gains. It will take courage to make difficult compromises, but doing so is essential for creating a brighter future for all who call this land home.
