Hamas tries to open a front against its own ally

Hamas is seeking to form a unified political bloc with Palestinian factions in Judea and Samaria to weaken Fatah's position ahead of the Legislative Council elections on November 28. Israeli security forces warn of increased activity by the organization, including the development of terrorist infrastructure and the spread of incitement materials. Hamas is considering creating a broad coalition to bypass restrictions on direct participation in the elections.

Hamas is attempting to change the political balance in the Palestinian Authority ahead of the Legislative Council elections scheduled for November 28. According to Israeli security forces, the organization is intensifying its activities in Judea and Samaria: developing terrorist infrastructure, directing local activists, and distributing incitement materials. The economic crisis in the region, the weakness of PA institutions, and distrust of the leadership in Ramallah create fertile ground for expanding Hamas's influence. Hamas's direct participation in the elections is hindered by new rules requiring candidates to recognize the PLO as the legitimate representative of the Palestinian people. In response, the organization is considering creating a broad coalition with various factions, which would allow it to bring allies into the legislative body even with restrictions on its own participation. Israeli security forces fear a repeat of the 2006 scenario, when Hamas unexpectedly defeated Fatah, leading to a split and Hamas's takeover of the Gaza Strip. Now in Israel, they believe that preparations for a possible change in the political landscape must begin early.

Hamas tries to open a front against its own ally