Fatah Seeks Peace With Israel, Unity With Hamas Amid Internal Divisions
The Palestinian Fatah movement faces the dual challenges of pursuing peace with Israel and achieving unity with Hamas. Representatives of the "Democratic Reforms" (FDR) faction, including former Fatah Revolutionary Council member Dimitri Diliiani, advocate for a pragmatic approach recognizing existing realities and coexistence. Diliiani stated in an interview with The Jerusalem Post that Palestinians must make peace with Israel under international law, though he described Israeli society as "morally bankrupt" and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas as a cause of economic disaster.
Attention is currently focused on FDR leader Mohammad Dahlan, a former head of the Palestinian Authority's Preventive Security Service who previously opposed Hamas. Dahlan reportedly participated in a U.S.-backed effort to oust Hamas from Gaza in 2008. After Hamas took control of the Gaza Strip, Dahlan lost his position and left the West Bank. The Palestinian Authority accused Dahlan of attempting a coup against Abbas, involvement in Yasser Arafat's death, and embezzling $16 million, all of which he denies. Despite these accusations, Dahlan met with Hamas leadership in Cairo in early September, urging a focus on protecting Palestinians and building a future political system rather than assigning blame for the past.
Diliiani explained the rapprochement by noting Hamas's undeniable presence and the impracticality of its removal. However, a U.S.-backed agreement requires Hamas to refrain from governing Gaza. With elections for the Palestinian Legislative Council scheduled for November, Hamas intends to participate, which necessitates resolving its status regarding the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) as the sole legitimate representative of Palestinians. Options include participating through a new party or forming an alliance with Dahlan, who resides in the UAE. Presidential elections could occur in 2027, following a 15-year delay. A recent poll indicates Abbas would receive only 14% of the vote, while Dahlan is currently barred from running due to a conviction, a restriction that could be lifted through an appeal or national reconciliation.
A significant hurdle remains the issue of weaponry. Dahlan has stated that no authority should possess weapons against the people's will. Hamas has reportedly agreed in principle to disarmament under a Trump plan, but the process has not yet begun. Diliiani opposes violence but deems armed resistance legitimate under "recognized occupation," acknowledging Israel's superior military strength. He likened the situation to choosing chess over boxing when facing a stronger opponent like Mike Tyson. Despite his harsh criticism of Israel, calling its society "genocidal," Diliiani believes Palestinians should prioritize education and healthcare.
