Fatah and Hamas discord over unity government mandate

Recent statements by Fatah and Hamas concerning the validity of the Palestinian unity government now that its interim period is over provided an initial contrast with regard to the factions’ political discord. Accusations of retraction and collaboration by Fatah and Hamas respectively have framed a discussion about a government built upon further compromise of Palestinian rights.

According to Maan news agency, Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri insisted upon dialogue to determine the future of the unity government following the expiration of its six-month term. While emphasising the necessity of dialogue and national unity, Abu Zuhri expressed concerns about the Palestinian Authority’s ongoing security collaboration with Israel, as reflected in the ongoing detention of Palestinians involved in, or supporting, resistance. “Hamas denounces the escalating violations and criminal acts by the PA security services against supporters of Hamas and the Palestinian resistance,” he declared.

However, the issue reflecting the ramifications of compromise was most evident in Abu Zuhri’s criticism of the unity government’s disregard for Gaza following Israel’s colonial massacre there during the summer. While stressing that Hamas does not control Gaza any more, Abu Zuhri pointed out that if the national consensus government doesn’t want to take responsibility for Gaza, “this doesn’t mean that the government is exempted from this responsibility.”

On the other hand, Fatah official Faisal Abu Shahla insisted that the six-month term was not indicative of the end of the government; he accused Hamas of distorting the alleged unity. “If the Hamas movement has retracted the reconciliation agreement and the termination of rivalry, then that is a different case.”

Despite the destruction, Gaza has remained on the periphery for the unity government which derives its misplaced legitimacy from compromise, both within Palestine as well as in the international arena. The so-called “unity”, discussed prior to Operation Protective Edge and already altered perilously through adherence to imperialist dictates in Palestine, has since degenerated into another scheme detracting from the necessity of resistance. This can be seen particularly within the context of Israel’s colonial process; PA collaboration in maintaining the dynamics of security collaboration that in turn contribute towards its continued existence; as well as excessive leniency with regard to international interference in Gaza.

However, rhetoric, especially on behalf of the PA, centres upon references to “rivalry” as opposed to tackling important issues, such as the unity government’s function as an extension of colonial subjugation. Since the Egyptian-brokered ceasefire and the ensuing plan to reconstruct Gaza – mired within issues of surveillance and control disguised as humanitarian endeavours – the unity government has been acquiescing to external impositions that, in turn, require compromised diplomatic efforts diverting attention away from liberation.

Discussing the government’s future, in light of the manner in which Hamas has been ostracised throughout the process, would serve to consolidate the process of compliance that the resistance movement has also contributed towards in its fluctuations with regard to resistance and liberation. The foundations upon which the unity government was constructed included the mellowing of resistance in favour of conventional political processes which, in turn, aided the political and humanitarian deterioration of Gaza. This is a reality that Hamas needs to address by asserting its adherence to armed struggle from within Palestine’s own historical frame of reference.

The views expressed in this article belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of Middle East Monitor.