Publisher's Synopsis
This comprehensive book delves deep into the political landscape of Gaza, spotlighting HAMAS's journey from its origins to its role as a democratically elected governing body. It sheds light on the intricacies of Palestinian politics, the socio-economic factors that contributed to HAMAS's rise to power, and the subsequent implications for the Palestinian territories and broader Middle East politics.
The narrative begins by exploring HAMAS's roots, charting its evolution from a socio-political movement in the 1980s to its armed resistance against Israel, and its designation as a terrorist organization by many countries. The book provides an in-depth examination of the 2006 Palestinian legislative elections, a turning point where HAMAS secured a significant victory, transitioning from an opposition group to the dominant party in Gaza.
Subsequent chapters analyze the challenges and dilemmas HAMAS faced in transitioning from a militant group to a governing body, including issues related to governance, service delivery, and international relations. The narrative also evaluates the consequences of the organization's dual role, both as a political party and as an armed faction, on the peace process and regional stability.
Drawing upon a vast array of sources, from interviews with key stakeholders to archival research, "HAMAS: The Government Elected by Palestinians in Gaza" provides readers with a nuanced understanding of the complexities and challenges of Palestinian governance in Gaza. The book avoids taking a simplistic or partisan stance, aiming instead to present a balanced and informed account of HAMAS's political journey and its implications for the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.
