Hamas and Islamic Jihad Eye Alliance with Rival Dahlan Against Abbas

Hamas and Islamic Jihad are reportedly in discussions to support a political list associated with Mohammed Dahlan, a long-time rival of Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas. The primary objective of this potential alliance is to diminish Abbas's influence ahead of the upcoming Palestinian legislative elections, scheduled for November 28. According to an Associated Press report, the talks aim to form a broad bloc capable of challenging the current leadership's camp, though a full merger of lists is not anticipated.

Sources close to the matter indicate that Dahlan opposes integrating Hamas members directly onto his list. Instead, the explored option involves external support from the two militant factions. The Deputy Secretary-General of Islamic Jihad, Mohammed al-Hindi, confirmed these discussions to the AP, stating the intention is to back a "unified national list" that could also include independent figures not formally affiliated with any organization. Representatives of Dahlan's faction have also acknowledged efforts to broaden cooperation and involve additional parties.

This potential collaboration marks a significant shift given the historical animosity between the groups. Dahlan, formerly a senior figure in Fatah and the Palestinian security services, was a prominent opponent of Hamas. After Hamas seized control of Gaza in 2007, Dahlan lost his power base there and later fell out with Abbas, leading him to leave Palestinian territories. However, recent months have seen a rapprochement, including a meeting between Dahlan and senior Hamas official Khalil al-Hayya two months ago, where they reportedly discussed a joint Palestinian strategy and reforming Palestinian leadership decision-making.

The legislative elections are set for November 28, marking the first general elections in the Palestinian Authority in two decades. However, their certainty remains in question, with speculation that Abbas might postpone them again. Previous attempts to hold elections, including a planned vote in 2021 that was canceled shortly before the scheduled date, have been unsuccessful. The last parliamentary elections were held in 2006, resulting in a Hamas victory.