Palestinians Rally For Unity

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip — Thousands of Palestinians thronged major squares in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank on Tuesday to deliver an impassioned appeal to their leaders to end the long-running feud that has divided the Palestinian people between two rival governments.

Demonstrators on each side of the Palestinian divide hoisted banners urging their leaders to unite the government that split after Hamas militants seized control of Gaza in June 2007, leaving Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas of the Fatah Party ruling only the West Bank.

Hamas security officers started beating marchers after their demonstration permit expired before sundown, witnesses said. A small Palestinian faction said Hamas security beat dozens with clubs, trying to disperse the crowd.

A news photographer was also beaten up by Hamas, witnesses said.

Past reconciliation attempts have failed and the marches seemed unlikely to bring the sides together because neither Fatah nor Hamas seem inclined to relinquish the power they have.

But if the campaign gains strength, it could pressure the rival governments to start talking again. Hamas, in particular, is waiting to see how the situation in neighboring Egypt evolves. The group hopes the next Egyptian government will ease or lift a crippling blockade of Gaza – a development that would strengthen Hamas and boost it in any future negotiations with Fatah.

Speaking to his government in Gaza, Hamas Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh said it was time for the sides to meet and set aside their differences and called on Fatah leaders begin the process of reconciliation.

Fatah spokesman Ahmed Assaf rejected the offer later Tuesday, saying it wasn't genuine.

The demonstration originally was organized by independent activists on Facebook, inspired by the changes sweeping through the region. But Fatah and Hamas quickly jumped on the bandwagon, and the two parties dominated Tuesday's rallies.

Tens of thousands of people took to the streets of Gaza City.

Young Hamas supporters were most prominently represented in Gaza, but small groups loyal to Fatah and other small Palestinian factions were also out, as were Facebook activists. There were some scuffles over internal disputes and four people were treated for wounds sustained by rocks.

In Ramallah, the seat of the West Bank government, some 8,000 demonstrators – most of them university students and youths – marched through a central square, calling for national unity.

The division between the West Bank and Gaza – territories on opposite sides of Israel that would one day make up a Palestinian state – is a major obstacle to Palestinian independence.

Abbas favors a peaceful settlement with the Israelis, though he halted talks late last year to protest Israeli settlement construction. Hamas has not renounced its commitment to Israel's destruction and opposes negotiations.

___

Daraghmeh reported from Ramallah, West Bank.

Comments

[Garvagh]

07:10 PM on 03/18/2011

The Palestinians need a unity government. Let's remember the stupidity of the G W Bush administration, which conspired with Israel to subvert the unity government (put together by the Saudis) in 2007.

[mommamia526]

03:25 PM on 03/19/2011

Remembering things is good. Keep remembering, but let that NOT prevent you from living in the present and doing what it takes. The Israelis handed over Gaza. Even before that, Abbas, who thought he would win, denounced any economic help from Israel. He said: we have other plans with Gaza. Hamas won, Abbas did not. Hamas had the same *other plans* for Gaza. For Palestinians it makes no difference what Israel does inside Israel. What makes a difference is their own status *citizenship*, as well as voting rights de facto, freedom of assembly, economics and employment, utilities, a roof over their head, kids in school and learning, in short everything everyone else wants. They are no different. They have the same basic needs and wants. Neither Israel, nor the U.S. is responsible for Palestinians. Palestinians are responsible for themselves. Again, that is the same as it is for all other populations. It appears that they are fed up with Hamas, Hezbullah, and Abbas. they are demonstrating. Hamas is attacking demonstrators, as Qadaffi is doing in Libya, as is happening in Bahrain, as was happening in Egypt. Same events, same causes, all over the area. Nothing to do with Israel. The MERis waking up and coming into the modern democratic and technological age.

[Garvagh]

04:53 PM on 03/19/2011

momma - - Do you favor an independent Palestine?

[Ramkshrestha]

09:01 AM on 03/17/2011

Yes unity is the most important, but people are dividing and dividing.

[Garvagh]

06:22 PM on 03/20/2011

Ram (and Momma) - - I think the cause of a new unity government would be advanced by international recognition of Palestine with 1967 borders. One reason Hamas was created was to prevent Fatah from selling out the interest of the Palestinian peopel.

[Json]

05:59 PM on 03/16/2011

Anyone notice the huge glaring omission in this article?

They want unity between the groups, but
"Abbas favors a peaceful settlement with the Israelis, though he halted talks late last year to protest Israeli settlement construction. Hamas has not renounced its commitment to Israel's destruction and opposes negotiations."

This isn't a minor difference. This is a huge fundamental philosophical rift. Which approach are the people hoping to pursue as a result of this unity?

[Garvagh]

07:12 PM on 03/18/2011

Json - - Arent you forgetting that Hamas offered Israel a 99-year truce? And Israel ignored the offer.

[mommamia526]

03:16 PM on 03/19/2011

A truce is not Peace, and it is not recognition. Moreover, Hamas has never changed its charter and its commitment to the destruction of Israel. There has been a limited truce between Israel and Gaza, which is constantly being ignored. Weapons shipments from Iran, via Syria, contain rockets and more to be used to attack Israeli citizens. It happens every day. It happens today.Of course Israel ignored that *offer* if it was made at all. That is not an offer; it is nonsense. Hamas has attacked foreign correspondents, all residing in one building, and dispersed demonstrators for an Unity Government, again today! Hamas does not want an Unity Government, and it wants to keep information of its practices off the air and off the internet. One wonders why that is the case. The unemployment rate among Palestinians is in double digits. Palestinians have no civil rights, no citizenship, no voting rights de facto, no right to own property in Lebanon, and no right to have a profession there either. The issue is NOT Israel. In this case the issue is Palestinians and their welfare. In all the other ME, N.African, and other African eruptions, the issues are the same as with Palestinians, i.e. oppressive regimes, no civil rights and voting rights de facto for the populations, employment and economic issues, basic survival issues.

[mage]

01:03 PM on 03/16/2011

Unite in pushing for peace..The world is watching and listening, and when they see a struggle that embraces Peace and reconciliation, it is impressed..May the similarities of the Palestinians and the Israelis bring them to the peace table..May they discuss their differences calmly..Everyone wants to look after their family,provide for them, educate them..God Willing!!

[lotus321]

12:49 PM on 03/16/2011

I was just talking to two of my Jewish friends. I asked why not just move one of the groups to the US. They said we don't want the Israelis here because they are actually Arabs and not real jews. One sais my relatives are from eastern europe and I have no ties to Israel and  no desire to visit.  WOW!

[JerryLevy]

01:56 PM on 03/16/2011

Nice post, thanks for sharing with us what your "Jewish friends" said. It was really relevant and enlightening. I learned a lot from this. Thanks.

[lotus321]

05:20 PM on 03/16/2011

It just caught me off guard, dude. No need to be snarky

[Gonzo36]

04:38 PM on 03/16/2011

You need some new friends.

[lotus321]

12:47 PM on 03/16/2011

SHould there be a no-fly zone for the palestinians..

[Macready]

12:37 PM on 03/16/2011

keep together and keep getting stronger . . .

[The Rights]

12:00 PM on 03/16/2011

Urge your state representatives and senators to immediately stop any remaining support for the Zionist regime. Much of the support already stopped because of the increasing pressure on this issue, but we Americans need to completely distance ourselves from this oppressive regime and stop being accomplices in its murders! The world is also reacting. Who would want to be remembered in history as an accomplice to ruthless occupation? Many countries, companies, and countless moral individuals have already successfully implemented no relations with the Zionist government and others are implementing the same policy as we speak. Not travel there, not buy anything from it, not trade with it, not communicate with it, etc. Also do the same with any country that supports it because the Zionist government only survives because of its external supporters.

[Macready]

12:35 PM on 03/16/2011

fanned and fav'd The Rights . . have been writing to the my congressmen for years about this . . . . I want to see an independent Palestinian state . . .but I do worry about our craven politicians . . with the 2012 elecctions coming up . this is a big reason why we need campaign reform big time as well as BSD

[mommamia526]

04:01 PM on 03/19/2011

What do you think about the *craven* Hamas Palestinian politicians? I hear that they are clubbing and attacking Palestinians in Gaza who are demonstrating for an Unity Palestinian Government. What is the problem with an Unity Palestinian government, dear Mac? So, you want to see an *independent Palestinian state*, with a government of two groups at odds with each other and killing each other? Yes, that will help that independent Palestinian State. For sure. In the U.S. we have, indeed, elections coming up in 2012, and we get to vote. Voting is something Palestinians might want to do too, in Gaza and the West Bank, to elect their own Palestinian Unity Government. They may also want jobs, a lower unemployment rate, and...citizenship of a country, Palestine. As it is, no Palestine exists, and the *leadership* is too busy attacking the population. What is happening in Libya and elsewhere, and what are people demonstrating about? Governments attacking its own populations. Yes, like in Gaza. I do not know all that, of course, but I suggest that we let Palestinians decide on Palestinian government, Americans decide on American government, and Israelis decide on Israeli government, and so on. Like *the Rights* you make absolutely no sense to me, Mac. I think you need to explain it. First, and foremost, to yourself. Or, maybe you do not like Palestinians?

[barbara0309]

12:51 PM on 03/16/2011

I have tried. My Senator (Todd Platts) wrote me a long winded letter basically saying he supports Israel against the terrorist (aka: Palestinians). I'm not sure what to do next, since all of my calls result in letters of the same thing.

Any ideas?

[JerryLevy]

03:49 PM on 03/16/2011

I have an idea, think about why he would take this position. You simply write to him demanding he take your position. Ask why he takes his position and see if there is a relevant thought process, logic and reason. Maybe he knows what he is doing. It sounds like he is saying that he believes Israel is Western Democracy that shares our values of religious tolerance, capitalism, and free expression and that they are under constant attack from the surrounding countries despite ongoing negotiations since 1992. I don't know this for sure but it is just a thought as to why you can't change your senator's mind.

[mommamia526]

04:06 PM on 03/19/2011

My idea is, that your Senator, Todd Platts, is wondering what the matter is with you, as you make absolutely no sense, whatsoever. He took the time to write you a long letter explaining matters, but you are not getting it. So, barbara0309, I would suggest that you give it all a rest, until you know more about the issues. There is a grave danger to writing nonsense, because today it remains part of your permanent record. Those letters of you may be public record, and an employer may read them, and ask himself: *what in the world*? Why should I hire that person?

[JerryLevy]

01:59 PM on 03/16/2011

Finally, an HP poster that will say what we all know..........the Jews are secretly running our country.

[LAThinker]

03:40 PM on 03/16/2011

I see, you are in forefront of strategic thinking.
I would recommend following next steps for you:
1. Stop going to your doctors (chances are at least one of them is Jewish)
2. Stop using Internet (many companies are run by Jews) if you do not know which at least do not use Google or Facebook.
3 and for god’s sake do not entertain yourself by watching TV, renting DVD or going to the movies, because you know who is running those outfits, right?
If you personally make those courageous steps, well I do not know if many will follow, but at least you will free yourself.
Please do report back how is it going for you

[notfooledbyu]

05:05 PM on 03/16/2011

Stopping is much harder than cutting back. I've cut back about 70% and I'll tell you I feel empowered. People shouldn't read news and think posting comments helps at all, DO SOMETHING. We have enough critical mass to make a difference without legislative participation. I guarantee if US companies supporting Israel see revenue decreases, things will change. It not coincidence that every J*wish leader that visits the US is hosted by US J*wish organizations.

[JojoJJ]

11:20 AM on 03/16/2011

In conclusion, the Zionist regime is negotiating now because its future is changing for much worse. It knows that it temporarily exists now only through the force of its arms and this will be short-lived. It knows that it is at its peak and a downturn has come. It is a mistake to negotiate with the Zionist regime at the present time. But, if you have to negotiate, do not accept anything less than a single region in question (single state) where all who live there are equal. Any other “solution” would just reward the Zionist regime at the time of its demise. If the Zionist regime wants true piece, let’s not make it dependent on Zionist political and land acquisition goals, but on democratic vote for all who live there and making everyone equal (something we Americans cherish so passionately).

[mommamia526]

04:28 PM on 03/19/2011

Oh, well, the Palestinians should certainly not negotiate with the Zionists, if they are demonstrating in Gaza for a PALESTINIAN UNITY GOVERNMENT. No sirree, bobcat tail! Even if the Zionist were to be for a Paletinian Unity Government, it would make no difference, whatsoever. You see, JoJo, by the way my daughter has a bird, JoJo, and he does not like me either, that bird..eh, where was I again. Oh, yeah. This is a matter of the Palestinian folk and the Palestinian government(s). Now there are two such governments, and political groups, Fatah, and Hamas. The Palestinians want to get on with it, and they want One United Government, not two fighting ones. It they manage to get One United Government, they will be a big step further. Still nowhere to go, but it will be one step forward. And, you can read for yourself, on CNN is where I read it, Hamas is beating the Palestinians who want one government instead of two, with big sticks. Now, I think that is not at all nice of Hamas. What do YOU think? Moreover, now they are also making international news outlets mad as you knwo what, because they have come in their building, and have attacked the journalists. All those different news outlets from all over the world are in on building there in Gaza. Did you knwo that? It was news to me. Heard it today.

[mommamia526]

04:37 PM on 03/19/2011

And, one more thing, JoJo, you with me? The Zionist Regime does not want one true piece. You are so right! Where, by the way is that Zionist Regime? Israel also does not want one true piece. What Israel wants is PEACE, AND QUIET, AND NO MORE ATTACKS ON ITS CIVILIANS. Is that too much to ask? Apparently, they think that those Palestinians should go to work, get a job, go to school, get an education, and mind their own business. They are even willing to give them a piece of their land, in exchange for PEACE, But they have already done that before, and the Palestinians got their piece, but did not deliver on that PEACE.
Worse, they can not deliver and do not want to deliver on PEACE with Israel. They can not even have peace among themselves. What a mess! And now they are demonstrating in Gaza, against Hamas and for an Unity Government, and they are getting beaten up! What do you think of that. Hamas is beating up their own people, who voted for them, Palestinians. Is that now right?

[JojoJJ]

11:19 AM on 03/16/2011

4. No country ever survived a complete isolation from its neighbors. No person of the area currently under Zionist occupation can obtain any type of visa from any of the surrounding countries for any reason – a complete land lock.

5. Well attended speeches take place almost weekly at colleges and universities across the U.S. and the world condemning the Zionist regime, their remaining supporters, and companies that do any business there. These speeches are often lead by moral Jewish people, church leaders, business people, etc., in addition to traditional peace activists.

6. The West where most of the traditional supporters of the Zionist regime are located is loosing global influence. China, the Middle East, South East Asia, Russia, South America, etc. are emerging as new pockets of economic and political power where the Zionist regime has angered most of the population.

7. Not only that the West is declining, but Zionists are loosing political control in the declining West. Diversity is bringing minority groups into politics, groups that are actively opposing the Zionist regime.

[JojoJJ]

11:17 AM on 03/16/2011

Why would Zionists want to discuss any peace agreement with the Palestinians when they have overwhelming military supremacy, seemingly ultimate power, and apparently bright future? Because the future is completely opposite and Zionists know it.

1. All military powers in history with no exception ultimately came crashing down. Someone stronger always comes, and it does not take a rocket scientist to see (just look around you) this coming and not ending well for the current military power in Palestine. Forward-seeing Jewish people under the Zionist regime already started packing up and leaving for Australia, South America, and the U.S. before this occurs.

2. It is obvious that the Zionist regime survives mainly because of its external allies who so far provided it with money, weapons, political support, access to markets, etc. After countless U.N. human rights violations, killing of its allies’ citizens (search on youtube for American “Rachel Corrie” video of Zionist bulldozer crushing her to death), forging of its allies’ passports in acts of murder, etc. its former allies are increasingly turning against the Zionist regime. Who would want to be remembered in history as an accomplice in international murders and especially of their own citizens.

3. Not only that the list of remaining supporters is growing thinner, but an international coalition is formed and growing larger of countries that are cutting all economic and diplomatic relations with the Zionist regime.

[LAThinker]

06:57 PM on 03/16/2011

So many words, so little sense

[Lenajones]

10:49 AM on 03/16/2011

I hope they unite to get serious about the true issue: Israel. In any case the Egyptians and all of the middle east are coming soon to liberate Palestine for Israel. If I was in "Israel" I'd leave now.

[mommamia526]

04:48 PM on 03/19/2011

Well, Lena! Lena! It appears that the Palestinians want a united Palestinian Government. Hamas does NOT agree with that, and beats the Palestinians up, with clubs. Same thing as happens all over, in the ME and N.Africa. Did you know that those Palestinians in Gaza voted for Hamas, that same regime, that is now beating them up and will not allow any more elections. They won once, and are not going to risk losing their good jobs in their *government*..

All of the ME, and N.Africa, is demonstrating to get their very own democratic governments, for jobs, for voting rights. Not one person is even thinking about Israel. Would you be thinking of it when your very own government is beating the you know what out of you and bombing you? You would have no time, Lena! And after the bombs, you would not have a house either, and probably some of your family might also be hit. See, that is the issue. Those *regimes* are attacking their own people, just as Hamas is doing in Gaza. Israel has nothing to do with it, whatsoever! All those people, Lena, are trying to liberate themselves. If Palestinians want to be liberated, they have to do it themselves and get rid of having two governments fighting each other, and no country, no nationality, no voting rights, no jobs, no...well, they have nothing. I think they will be coming to get something, they will not be coming for Israel..

[Wisdo]

10:44 AM on 03/16/2011

Please read Huffpo contributor MJ Rosenbergs piece for Al Jazeera:

http://english.aljazeera.net/indepth/opinion/2011/03/2011314135126922189.html

"The Israeli government, understanding all this, is determined to put the onus back on the Palestinians to forestall any pressure. Most important of all, it is terrified that the Palestinian Authority will go ahead with its plan to unilaterally declare a state this summer, the only PA plan in years that actually has real momentum.

It needs the United States to block that plan by any means necessary, including a full cut-off of US (and even international) aid to the Palestinians (this at a time when defence minister Barak is requesting another $20 billion in aid to Israel from the United States). Stopping a Palestinian unilateral declaration of independence dead in its tracks is now Netanyahu's number one goal. And getting Obama to go along with him (which shouldn't be too difficult with the 2012 election looming) is the way he intends to do it."

[mommamia526]

05:07 PM on 03/19/2011

So far, Abbas has stated that he will go to Gaza, but not to negotiate with Hamas, but to form a Government! Stated, he is not there yet. And, Palestinians are demonstrating for a Unity Government, and Hamas, no, not Israel, is attacking Palestinians in Gaza who are demonstrating for that Unity government. Hamas has also attacked large foreign news outlets, and their journalists, who wish to report on the demonstrations. I do not think Israel and Mr. Netanyahu, have anything to *fear*. It appears that the entity which exhibits *fear* at this time is...Hamas. But, of course, this *article* is probably an old one. Abbas tried to circumvent negotiations with Israel and the facilitor of such negotiations, the U.S. It was a very big arm to twist, and Abbas had conveniently, but stupidly, forgotten about veto power.

This, however, like your post, Wisdo, has nothing to do with the Palestinian and other ME and N. African uprisings.

[MarcEdward]

07:59 AM on 03/16/2011

Good!

[friendsofidf]

08:25 AM on 03/16/2011

Bad!

[Avirahim]

09:23 AM on 03/16/2011

What is bad about it?

[mommamia526]

05:09 PM on 03/19/2011

What is good, Marky Marc? That Wisdo is running behind and quoting old nonsense? What is good about it, and especially what is good about it for.....Palestinians? Boggles the mind. I know what is good about it and for whom. Good for da Rosey, who made a few bucks selling an *article*. Content is irrelevant. He sold it and got a few bucks.