Mahmoud Zahhar is believed to be the leader of the Palestinian Islamic Resistance Group, Hamas, in Gaza.
A surgeon who teaches medicine at the Islamic University in Gaza, Mr Zahhar helped found the group in 1987 with Sheikh Ahmed Yassin.
He became a member of the "collective leadership" of the militant group in 2004 after Sheikh Yassin and Abdel-Aziz Rantissi were assassinated by Israel.
Mr Zahhar is one of Hamas' ideological leaders and is considered to be more hardline than Ismail Haniya, who headed the group's national list of candidates for the January legislative elections.
Ismail Haniya was a relatively unknown figure until he headed the Hamas list that won the Palestinian legislative election of January 2006.
He had risen within the Islamic group as a close associate of its spiritual leader, the late Sheikh Ahmad Yassin, whose office he ran.
He is considered a pragmatist in the movement's ranks who is more open to dialogue with Israel.
However, he has insisted that Israel would have to recognise Palestinian rights before talks could begin.
=============================================
Who are the Hamas?
Hamas takes its name from the Arabic initials for the Islamic Resistance Movement.
Branded a terrorist organization by Israel, the US and the EU, it is seen by its supporters as a legitimate fighting force defending Palestinians from a brutal military occupation.
It is the largest Palestinian militant Islamist organisation, formed in 1987 at the beginning of the first intifada, or Palestinian uprising against Israel's occupation in the West Bank and Gaza.
The group's short-term aim has been to drive Israeli forces from the occupied territories. To achieve this it has launched attacks on Israeli troops and settlers in the Palestinian territories and against civilians in Israel.
It also has a long-term aim of establishing an Islamic state on all of historic Palestine - most of which has been contained within Israel's borders since its creation in 1948.
For years the organisation was divided into two main spheres of operation:
* social programmes like building schools, hospitals and religious institutions
* militant operations carried out by Hamas' underground Iss al-Din Qassam Brigades.
But it became increasingly involved in Palestinian factional politics, both in the occupied territories and with a political branch in exile.
One of its leaders-in-exile, Khalid Meshaal, was the target of a bungled Israeli assassination attempt in Jordan in 1997.
King Hussein was outraged by Israel's action and was only placated when Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu released Hamas's jailed spiritual leader and founder Sheikh Ahmed Yassin.
While King Hussein tolerated Hamas's presence, his successor King Abdullah II had the group's headquarters closed down and senior figures expelled to Qatar.
Hamas has remained outside the main Palestinian political structure of the PLO, but it took part in - and won - Palestinian Authority (PA) legislative elections in the occupied territories in 2006.
Veto power
Hamas came to prominence after the first intifada as the main Palestinian opponent of the Oslo accords - the US-sponsored peace process that oversaw the gradual and partial removal of Israel's occupation in return for Palestinian guarantees to protect Israeli security.
Despite numerous Israeli operations against it and clampdowns by Yasser Arafat's Palestinian National Authority, Hamas found it had an effective power of veto over the process by launching suicide attacks.
In February and March 1996, it carried out several suicide bus bombings, killing nearly 60 Israelis, in retaliation for the assassination in December 1995 of Hamas bomb maker Yahya Ayyash.
The bombings were widely blamed for turning Israelis off the peace process and bringing about the election of right-winger Mr Netanyahu who was a staunch opponent of the Oslo accords.
In the post-Oslo world, most particularly following the failure of US President Bill Clinton's Camp David summit in the summer of 2000 and the second intifada which followed shortly thereafter, Hamas gained power and influence as Israel steadily destroyed the infrastructure of the Palestinian Authority.
In towns and refugee camps besieged by the Israeli army, Hamas organised clinics and schools which served Palestinians who felt entirely let down by the corrupt and inefficient Palestinian Authority dominated by its secularist rival, Fatah.
The armed struggle
Many Palestinians cheered the wave of Hamas suicide attacks (and those of fellow militants Islamic Jihad and the secular al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade) in the first years of the intifada.
They saw "martyrdom" operations as the best way to avenge their own losses and counter Israel's unchecked settlement building in the West Bank.
After the death of Fatah leader Yasser Arafat in 2004, the Palestinian Authority was taken over by Mahmoud Abbas, a vocal opponent of attacks on Israel.
He viewed Hamas rocket fire, the militants' weapon of choice in recent years, as counterproductive, inflicting little damage on Israel but provoking a harsh response by the Israeli military.
When Hamas scored a landslide victory in the Palestinian Authority legislative elections in 2006, the stage was set for a bitter power struggle with Fatah.
Hamas resisted all efforts to get it to sign up to previous agreements with Israel, as well as to recognise Israel's legitimacy and to give up the armed struggle.
It has remained steadfast to its pledge never to sign up to a permanent ceasefire while Israel occupies Palestinian territory and its troops are responsible for the deaths of Palestinians.
It did, however, offer a 10-year truce in return for a complete Israeli withdrawal from territories occupied in 1967: the West Bank, Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem.
But it has not relinquished its assertion that Palestinian refugees from 1948 should be allowed to return to homes in what has become Israel - a move that threatens Israel's very existence as a Jewish state.
Assassinations
Over the years Hamas has lost many members in Israeli assassinations and security sweeps.
The paraplegic and visually impaired Sheikh Yassin was killed in a missile attack on 22 March 2004.
Khaled Meshaal, now based in Syria, became the group's overall leader. Abdul Aziz al-Rantissi emerged as Hamas leader in Gaza before he too was assassinated six weeks later on 17 April.
Other prominent Hamas officials killed by the Israelis include Ismail Abu Shanab, in August 2003, and Izz al-Din Qassam Brigades leader Salah Shehada, in July 2002.
Shehada's successor, Muhammad Deif - whom Israel blames for the 1996 bombings - has escaped several attempts on his life.
More moderate political figures also emerged as significant players within the movement.
One of them was Ismail Haniya, a former aide to Sheikh Yassin, who was appointed to a "collective leadership" in the occupied territories along with the more hardline Mahmoud Zahhar and Said al-Siyam.
Facing the electorate
Hamas's decision to stand in PA legislative council elections in 2006 was a major departure for the movement and had a profound impact on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Top figures said the move reflected Hamas's importance in the Palestinian sphere and the need for it to address failing political structures beset by corruption, inefficiency and lost credibility.
It did not, they insisted, imply any acceptance of a two-state solution to the conflict, although Hamas opposition to the Oslo accords had kept it out of previous elections.
Aside from its much-vaunted incorruptibility, Hamas campaigned forcefully on its claim that Israel's withdrawal from Gaza in the summer of 2005 was a victory for its commitment to armed conflict with the Israelis.
But if Hamas leaders thought its parliamentary victory would bestow greater credibility on them in the eyes of the international community - or if they thought in any way that they would be given any more leeway - they were mistaken.
The new government was subjected to tough economic and diplomatic sanctions by Israel and its allies in the West.
Skirmishes in Gaza with the Fatah-dominated PA security forces escalated to all-out war, in which the well-armed and better-disciplined Qassam Brigades eventually ousted their rivals in May 2007.
Hamas security control made Gaza a more calm and orderly place than it had been for months. But Israel tightened its blockade on the Strip and - despite a multilateral ceasefire in June 2008 - rocket fire and Israeli raids continued to provide provocations for more violence by each side.
And on the diplomatic level, the Palestinians faced their biggest set-back for decades.
With Hamas in charge of Gaza and the pro-Fatah PA operating in the West Bank - and neither side engaging properly with the other - the aspiration of an independent Palestinian seemed further away than ever.
The muslim armies need to fight the jews. This is the requirement from Islam.
Fight in the cause of Allah those who fight you but do not transgress limits; for Allah does not love transgressors. And slay them wherever you catch them and turn them out from where they have turned you out; for tumult and oppression are worse than slaughter. [TMQ Baqara:190- 191]
Therefore, if anyone transgresses a prohibition and attacks you, retaliate with the same force. (TMQ Baqara:194)
britexpat - noted and not dismissing what I just read.
But also note : "Extensive responses to McGreal's allegations were offered by several media watchdog organizations, including the Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting in America,[3][4][5] the Britain Israel Communications and Research Centre, [6] Engage,[7] and Honest Reporting,[8] which viewed his claims as false and defamatory."
And in case some people cursorily dismiss anything American or British Israel or Wikipedia ... but note: the Arab Media Watch is one of the links in the "Honest Reporting" in No.8. It is a London-based media watch organization with a pro-Arab perspective.
Founded in 2000, by Sharif Hikmat Nashashibi from Kuwait, Arab Media Watch claims to be the "only organization of its kind in the UK". The organization monitors coverage of the Arab world and Islam in UK based print and broadcast media.
Need further information. Eg. what are the possible biasness of these reporters, organisations, etc. No one is without any bias but the ones without an axe to grind would be nearer the truth.
Hamas radio and TV report the capture of two Israeli soldiers during the fighting, but the Israeli army says it has no knowledge of the claim http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/7810270.stm
Poverty is not for the sake of hardship. No, it is there because nothing exists but God. Poverty unlocks the door -- what a blessed key!
The Elimination of Hamas is just an excuse, a cover up, not more and not less... This is a means of Eliminating palestine as a whole, so that all that is there to be is Israel.. This is an ongoing Feud for decades over this is mine while that is urs...
Hizbollah is greatly angered by what is going on in Gaza and May take action. Good or Bad?!
Bad: if they take action from Lebanese lands, it will expand into Lebanon and a repition of July 2006 War will happen.
Good: Palestinians needs help, Arab leaders are just sitting there watching the events and shaking their heads when action needs to be taken. But the action should be taken from Within Palestinian lands and not any other location.
Its gonna get worse to get better.. but when it gets better.. in whose opinion?!
I dunno really... this is definitely gonna expand if nothing is done ASAP to stop it! Israel is like one hungry monster devouring all on its way and no one is able to stop it... sheesh it is ONE Country Surrounded By the gulf countries on one side and the Ocean on the Other.. who should be the one scared?!
The Arabs are fools! all we know how to do is Talk and talk..
First of all, it's very sad to see our brothers and sisters being killed.
Initially, I thought that UkEngQatar was right in that the attacks are politically motivated for next month's elections. But looking at the events unfolding, it's not true. ummjake - very well said.
UkEQ - "They want to humiliate the Arab and show them that they can do what ever they want and no one in the world can do any thing to them."
I doubt it. It's not that shallow an intention. They are protecting their people. During the ceasefire, BOTH sides were preparing to defend themselves. Israel happened to be better prepared. They are also not targeting civilians - warning them and giving time to evacuate, etc.
Why are people blind to that fact that Hamas uses civilians as shields and to put pressure on the rest of the world to accede to their demands? All in the name of THEIR own interpretation of God's wishes. I wish they would walk the path of peace and tolerance while maintaining the sanctity of Islam as Qatar has shown.
/I'm not saying this because I need to work here. I have other options but I chose to be here for the learning experience esp. a different perspective of Islam.
That you should explain Timtan if you made a realistic wish.
Israel cann't get peace unless it captured all palestine and finished all palestinians. Isn't your wish totaly unrealistic? If you really wish life for palestinians then force Israel to create a palestinian state giving them enough room.
Ummjake.. nice to see a view from the otherside in a nice way.. Even if the end result is ending in the killing of the innocent mases. The Israelis are not there to eliminate Hamas as most of their leaders are living abroad with posh cars etc.
I say it again it just a political stunt by the Israelis in the name of Hamas..
If that doesn't sound too much like an oxymoron ("humane attacks")...Calling up cilivilans and giving them 15 minutes warning to leave before the bombs hit? Firing half a dozen warning shots around targets before actually demolishing them (to further warn civilians to get out of harm's way)? What more do people expect or want? If you look at the casualties from the first 1-3 days of this offensive, you'd see that fewer than 20% of the deaths were civilians. Obviously, that number has risen as the attacks have continued, but when you're dealing with a group like Hamas -- a group that builds tunnels under civilian neighborhoods, that hides weapons in schools and mosques, that has militants hunker down near people's houses -- then I am confused how people are surprised and outraged that innocents get killed when Israel responds to Hamas firing missiles across its borders (missiles that target, I might add, any poor person who happens to get hit; they're not firing at the IDF specifically).
I also find it interesting that when Israel sais they would be agreeable to a second truce with the condition of international monitors, Hamas flatly refused that offer. Seems to me that Hamas is all too willing to risk innocent Palestinians' lives in this conflict...
they can also send in special forces and take people out the old fashioned way...of course..that's supposedly against all rules...but killing mass quantities of people is ok???
Grant me the senility to forget the people I never liked,the good fortune to run into the ones I do,and the eyesight to tell the difference.
timtan this attack on GAZA in nothing but a political stunt for the next month Isreali elections. Brave Israelis my ass..
With all the sophiticate armour that they have they can pin point and kill only the millitants, not the innocent. Majority of the killed are innocent and as the 3 or 4 Israelis that got got killed by these micky mouse rockets.
where are all the Arab nations during all this? I haven't seen any actions from them at all, backing their own.
UKeng...you talk about the UN not doing anything without the US's nod...The UN could if they could if they wanted to, but they don't. America isn't that all fired powerful that they can change an entire world's mindset. I do wish that the US would shake free of Israel and let them stand on their own...but then again, I'd like to see that happen all over the world.
Now that being said...I hate to see that things have escalated as far as they have. I don't care if you are Jewish or Muslim...people being killed is just wrong...
Grant me the senility to forget the people I never liked,the good fortune to run into the ones I do,and the eyesight to tell the difference.
Nothing is fair in this cruel world. I hope some day GOD do a brain wash of all Mankind and every one gets peacefull.
What I believe is that Israel is never going to give the land back and palestinians will never stop firing rockets even what ever the outcome of the war. I hope poor civilians dont die. I hope innocent children dont die. I hope Arabs should learn now to sit together. I hope people get courage to say the truth. I hope ...........
Anyone who kills innocent unarmed person is not brave timtan but a coward. Get your fact right mate. This is not a fighting of two army's but supression of the masses by one of the world's cruelist army.
maybe this time, UN will not need a "nod" from US anymore. maybe this is the time in history ... i saw the live coverage this morning. Israel army looks all geared up, they have that advantage. But I believe when a nation have been oppressed long enough, and an influential and politically-willed leader has come, bloodshed will happen, then liberation and independence.
I came from a nation that was occupied for centuries! but liberation came after so many revolts from our people. these people of Hamas are paying the price today for the freedom of their children's children tomorrow. just as we Filipinos didn't have to be born in an occupied country, we were born already freed from any foreign occupation, no siege, no blockades.
we hope to live to see this day, an arab state for the Palestinians.
نزار ريان the next thing you will be saying is the Good men like Osama Bind Laden. Anyone who preaches hatred and war without thinking about peace is a very dangerous person or orgnisation.
Israeli's claim that they are protecting their people from rockets from Gaza. I wish there was some Arab country that could also protect the Palestinains from the bombs of the cruel Israeli army. This not a fighting but a punishment for the Gazans for the action of the few. I know how you feel. But where are the Hamas brothers now.. How are they protecting their people from these atrocities of the Israelis. But just provoking the Israelis by pointless little rockets.
May Allah protect the dignity and homour of your people and give you unity to fight the evil force.
UkEngQatar, you are right.. i would say, ESPECIALLY after loosing friends and family members, one has to put as much efforts as he/she can into the PEACE MATTER, not into WAR!! why people don't understand this simple truth!
*********************
“You become responsible forever for what you have tamed”. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
UkEngQatar, sending them to filipins could be a great solution, by the way.. much less Filipinas broken hearts, for sure.. coz in general, arabs are great husbands!!
*********************
“You become responsible forever for what you have tamed”. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
I know what it means by being blown up. I was just ten minutes away from being blown up by some confused muslim sucide bombers in London. I lost a number of friends and family in that bombing so dont preach me about dignity mate..
نزار ريان you talk about honour and dignity.. My friend the so called honour and dignity was lost when your other bretheren Arab countries accepted Israel. SO get real and accept the fact first and then talk about dignity. The honour and dignity of the palestinians was lost when one palestinain started killing each other for political gain (Hamas V Fateh). So at present the biggest enemy is within Palestine.
You cannot force them warmongers to stop the wars. Let them make war. Transfer the Palestinian population anywhere outside the territory. Push the Israeli population out of the war territory too. Let the warmongers die with their own wars.
Solved.
"Everything in this book may be wrong." Illusions: The Adventures of The Reluctant Messiah by Richard Bach
Heero go back to bed.. Why dont we send them to Philipines and give them one of you many Islands.. Be real man this is serious situation. Peoples lives are being lost. We need to stop the bombing/rockets on both sides.
QS I agree and support you that all hostilities should end immediately.. What نزار ريان is saying is to free or recapture the land that they lost. That can nly be done with outside intervention, When the Palestinains are united and strong as their enemy. At the moment they are not even united let alone strong. Israel is the 51st state of USA and they will never turn away from them. And Palestinians will never get the land by fighting alone.. only with diplomacy and talks..
نزار ريان, you see? This is the problem.. because of people like yourself, more and more kids and women will be killed…
Draccy, they don’t have to mix and work together. Egyptians and Jordanians don’t mix and work together with israelians.. but each one MINDS THEIR OWN BUSINESS! and guess what, IT WORKS! it means it might work with other countries as well...
Platao, i agree with you... 2 states must be created and a lot - but a lot - of peace observers must be presented there for at least 6-8 years...
*********************
“You become responsible forever for what you have tamed”. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Abu, i am sorry.. i cannot trust your maps... but please, it's not about YOURSELF, it's just about the information that comes from your side...based on your other posts.. again, please it's not against you personally… but for me the sources that you use in your posts seem to be very much doubtful..
This is first...
the second, what would be YOUR suggestion to finish this bloody conflict? ONE state, named - WHAT?
*********************
“You become responsible forever for what you have tamed”. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
This is why i think all Europe should stand together, the US would have more probs in not allowing such decisions, the europe together could alone send enough armies to control the borders
Only God Can Judge Me
الله فقط يمكنه محاكمتي
I am you and you are me, if you love i love, if you suffer i suffer
أنا أنت, و أنت أنا, إذا أحببت نفسك أحببت نفسي, إذا عانيتَ عانيتُ
QS They will distroy all the rocket launchers.. but what about the hands that throw the stones. It not the rocket that they are after. They want to humiliate the Arab and show them that they can do what ever they want and no one in the world can do any thing to them..
The horrific backclash will the return of the sucide bombers..
I hope after that mess whole world have to realize that there is no any other choice for both sides except of tolerance...based on two-states solution... even though establishing of two states is dangerous enough...
*********************
“You become responsible forever for what you have tamed”. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Qatar's winter months are brimming with unmissable experiences, from the AFC Asian Cup 2023 to the World Aquatics Championships Doha 2024 and a variety of outdoor adventures and cultural delights.
Fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a sweet escape into the world of budget-friendly Mango Sticky Rice that's sure to satisfy both your cravings and your budget!
Celebrate World Vegan Day with our list of vegan food outlets offering an array of delectable options, spanning from colorful salads to savory shawarma and indulgent desserts.
Who are Hamas?
Sheikh Ahmad Yassin's Hamas founder
For more reading on his profile:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/4653706.stm
Current leadership
Hamas' Mahmoud Zahhar
For more reading on his profile:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/4653706.stm
Mahmoud Zahhar is believed to be the leader of the Palestinian Islamic Resistance Group, Hamas, in Gaza.
A surgeon who teaches medicine at the Islamic University in Gaza, Mr Zahhar helped found the group in 1987 with Sheikh Ahmed Yassin.
He became a member of the "collective leadership" of the militant group in 2004 after Sheikh Yassin and Abdel-Aziz Rantissi were assassinated by Israel.
Mr Zahhar is one of Hamas' ideological leaders and is considered to be more hardline than Ismail Haniya, who headed the group's national list of candidates for the January legislative elections.
Hamas PM Ismail Haniya
For more reading on his profile:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/4655146.stm
Ismail Haniya was a relatively unknown figure until he headed the Hamas list that won the Palestinian legislative election of January 2006.
He had risen within the Islamic group as a close associate of its spiritual leader, the late Sheikh Ahmad Yassin, whose office he ran.
He is considered a pragmatist in the movement's ranks who is more open to dialogue with Israel.
However, he has insisted that Israel would have to recognise Palestinian rights before talks could begin.
=============================================
Who are the Hamas?
Hamas takes its name from the Arabic initials for the Islamic Resistance Movement.
Branded a terrorist organization by Israel, the US and the EU, it is seen by its supporters as a legitimate fighting force defending Palestinians from a brutal military occupation.
It is the largest Palestinian militant Islamist organisation, formed in 1987 at the beginning of the first intifada, or Palestinian uprising against Israel's occupation in the West Bank and Gaza.
The group's short-term aim has been to drive Israeli forces from the occupied territories. To achieve this it has launched attacks on Israeli troops and settlers in the Palestinian territories and against civilians in Israel.
It also has a long-term aim of establishing an Islamic state on all of historic Palestine - most of which has been contained within Israel's borders since its creation in 1948.
For years the organisation was divided into two main spheres of operation:
* social programmes like building schools, hospitals and religious institutions
* militant operations carried out by Hamas' underground Iss al-Din Qassam Brigades.
But it became increasingly involved in Palestinian factional politics, both in the occupied territories and with a political branch in exile.
One of its leaders-in-exile, Khalid Meshaal, was the target of a bungled Israeli assassination attempt in Jordan in 1997.
King Hussein was outraged by Israel's action and was only placated when Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu released Hamas's jailed spiritual leader and founder Sheikh Ahmed Yassin.
While King Hussein tolerated Hamas's presence, his successor King Abdullah II had the group's headquarters closed down and senior figures expelled to Qatar.
Hamas has remained outside the main Palestinian political structure of the PLO, but it took part in - and won - Palestinian Authority (PA) legislative elections in the occupied territories in 2006.
Veto power
Hamas came to prominence after the first intifada as the main Palestinian opponent of the Oslo accords - the US-sponsored peace process that oversaw the gradual and partial removal of Israel's occupation in return for Palestinian guarantees to protect Israeli security.
Despite numerous Israeli operations against it and clampdowns by Yasser Arafat's Palestinian National Authority, Hamas found it had an effective power of veto over the process by launching suicide attacks.
In February and March 1996, it carried out several suicide bus bombings, killing nearly 60 Israelis, in retaliation for the assassination in December 1995 of Hamas bomb maker Yahya Ayyash.
The bombings were widely blamed for turning Israelis off the peace process and bringing about the election of right-winger Mr Netanyahu who was a staunch opponent of the Oslo accords.
In the post-Oslo world, most particularly following the failure of US President Bill Clinton's Camp David summit in the summer of 2000 and the second intifada which followed shortly thereafter, Hamas gained power and influence as Israel steadily destroyed the infrastructure of the Palestinian Authority.
In towns and refugee camps besieged by the Israeli army, Hamas organised clinics and schools which served Palestinians who felt entirely let down by the corrupt and inefficient Palestinian Authority dominated by its secularist rival, Fatah.
The armed struggle
Many Palestinians cheered the wave of Hamas suicide attacks (and those of fellow militants Islamic Jihad and the secular al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade) in the first years of the intifada.
They saw "martyrdom" operations as the best way to avenge their own losses and counter Israel's unchecked settlement building in the West Bank.
After the death of Fatah leader Yasser Arafat in 2004, the Palestinian Authority was taken over by Mahmoud Abbas, a vocal opponent of attacks on Israel.
He viewed Hamas rocket fire, the militants' weapon of choice in recent years, as counterproductive, inflicting little damage on Israel but provoking a harsh response by the Israeli military.
When Hamas scored a landslide victory in the Palestinian Authority legislative elections in 2006, the stage was set for a bitter power struggle with Fatah.
Hamas resisted all efforts to get it to sign up to previous agreements with Israel, as well as to recognise Israel's legitimacy and to give up the armed struggle.
It has remained steadfast to its pledge never to sign up to a permanent ceasefire while Israel occupies Palestinian territory and its troops are responsible for the deaths of Palestinians.
It did, however, offer a 10-year truce in return for a complete Israeli withdrawal from territories occupied in 1967: the West Bank, Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem.
But it has not relinquished its assertion that Palestinian refugees from 1948 should be allowed to return to homes in what has become Israel - a move that threatens Israel's very existence as a Jewish state.
Assassinations
Over the years Hamas has lost many members in Israeli assassinations and security sweeps.
The paraplegic and visually impaired Sheikh Yassin was killed in a missile attack on 22 March 2004.
Khaled Meshaal, now based in Syria, became the group's overall leader. Abdul Aziz al-Rantissi emerged as Hamas leader in Gaza before he too was assassinated six weeks later on 17 April.
Other prominent Hamas officials killed by the Israelis include Ismail Abu Shanab, in August 2003, and Izz al-Din Qassam Brigades leader Salah Shehada, in July 2002.
Shehada's successor, Muhammad Deif - whom Israel blames for the 1996 bombings - has escaped several attempts on his life.
More moderate political figures also emerged as significant players within the movement.
One of them was Ismail Haniya, a former aide to Sheikh Yassin, who was appointed to a "collective leadership" in the occupied territories along with the more hardline Mahmoud Zahhar and Said al-Siyam.
Facing the electorate
Hamas's decision to stand in PA legislative council elections in 2006 was a major departure for the movement and had a profound impact on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Top figures said the move reflected Hamas's importance in the Palestinian sphere and the need for it to address failing political structures beset by corruption, inefficiency and lost credibility.
It did not, they insisted, imply any acceptance of a two-state solution to the conflict, although Hamas opposition to the Oslo accords had kept it out of previous elections.
Aside from its much-vaunted incorruptibility, Hamas campaigned forcefully on its claim that Israel's withdrawal from Gaza in the summer of 2005 was a victory for its commitment to armed conflict with the Israelis.
But if Hamas leaders thought its parliamentary victory would bestow greater credibility on them in the eyes of the international community - or if they thought in any way that they would be given any more leeway - they were mistaken.
The new government was subjected to tough economic and diplomatic sanctions by Israel and its allies in the West.
Skirmishes in Gaza with the Fatah-dominated PA security forces escalated to all-out war, in which the well-armed and better-disciplined Qassam Brigades eventually ousted their rivals in May 2007.
Hamas security control made Gaza a more calm and orderly place than it had been for months. But Israel tightened its blockade on the Strip and - despite a multilateral ceasefire in June 2008 - rocket fire and Israeli raids continued to provide provocations for more violence by each side.
And on the diplomatic level, the Palestinians faced their biggest set-back for decades.
With Hamas in charge of Gaza and the pro-Fatah PA operating in the West Bank - and neither side engaging properly with the other - the aspiration of an independent Palestinian seemed further away than ever.
Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/2/hi/middle_east/1654510.stm
Published: 2009/01/04 15:53:06 GMT
© BBC MMIX
"we are keen on martyrdom, as much as they are keen on staying alive"
Dracula: Yes, i know how you feal, it's all just too sad, her words make me remember the song "Russians" by Sting:
"In Europe and America, there's a growing feeling of hysteria
Conditioned to respond to all the threats
In the rhetorical speeches of the Soviets
Mr. Krushchev said we will bury you
I don't subscribe to this point of view
It would be such an ignorant thing to do
If the Russians love their children too
How can I save my little boy from Oppenheimer's deadly toy
There is no monopoly in common sense
On either side of the political fence
We share the same biology
Regardless of ideology
Believe me when I say to you
I hope the Russians love their children too
There is no historical precedent
To put the words in the mouth of the President
There's no such thing as a winnable war
It's a lie that we don't believe anymore
Mr. Reagan says we will protect you
I don't subscribe to this point of view
Believe me when I say to you
I hope the Russians love their children too
We share the same biology
Regardless of ideology
What might save us, me, and you
Is if the Russians love their children too"
now think about it, all you haters
Only God Can Judge Me
الله فقط يمكنه محاكمتي
I am you and you are me, if you love i love, if you suffer i suffer
أنا أنت, و أنت أنا, إذا أحببت نفسك أحببت نفسي, إذا عانيتَ عانيتُ
in QL, thats GPN.
Dracula: Wise words from her.
Only God Can Judge Me
الله فقط يمكنه محاكمتي
I am you and you are me, if you love i love, if you suffer i suffer
أنا أنت, و أنت أنا, إذا أحببت نفسك أحببت نفسي, إذا عانيتَ عانيتُ
Golda Meir once said:
"There will never be peace until the Palestinians love their children more than they hate ours."
When did that happen, tim?
After or before thousands of Palestinean children were slaughtered since the 1940's?
Here is my honest comment to you:
Unfortunately israel has closed the schools, otherwise we would have been able to see casualties in children from both sides, instead of one.
here you go:
http://palestinian.ning.com/forum/topics/the-other-side-of-the-story
The muslim armies need to fight the jews. This is the requirement from Islam.
Fight in the cause of Allah those who fight you but do not transgress limits; for Allah does not love transgressors. And slay them wherever you catch them and turn them out from where they have turned you out; for tumult and oppression are worse than slaughter. [TMQ Baqara:190- 191]
Therefore, if anyone transgresses a prohibition and attacks you, retaliate with the same force. (TMQ Baqara:194)
britexpat - noted and not dismissing what I just read.
But also note : "Extensive responses to McGreal's allegations were offered by several media watchdog organizations, including the Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Reporting in America,[3][4][5] the Britain Israel Communications and Research Centre, [6] Engage,[7] and Honest Reporting,[8] which viewed his claims as false and defamatory."
Source : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chris_McGreal
And in case some people cursorily dismiss anything American or British Israel or Wikipedia ... but note: the Arab Media Watch is one of the links in the "Honest Reporting" in No.8. It is a London-based media watch organization with a pro-Arab perspective.
Founded in 2000, by Sharif Hikmat Nashashibi from Kuwait, Arab Media Watch claims to be the "only organization of its kind in the UK". The organization monitors coverage of the Arab world and Islam in UK based print and broadcast media.
Need further information. Eg. what are the possible biasness of these reporters, organisations, etc. No one is without any bias but the ones without an axe to grind would be nearer the truth.
*****************************************
Don't want no drama,
No, no drama, no, no, no, no drama
timtan I never defend Hamas.. See my earlier post from last night. However the actions of Israel are well over the top in the name of defense.
-----------------
HE WHO DARES WINS
Hamas radio and TV report the capture of two Israeli soldiers during the fighting, but the Israeli army says it has no knowledge of the claim http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/7810270.stm
Poverty is not for the sake of hardship. No, it is there because nothing exists but God. Poverty unlocks the door -- what a blessed key!
- Jalaluddin al-Rumi
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2009/jan/04/israel-gaza-hamas-hidden-agenda
The Elimination of Hamas is just an excuse, a cover up, not more and not less... This is a means of Eliminating palestine as a whole, so that all that is there to be is Israel.. This is an ongoing Feud for decades over this is mine while that is urs...
WYSIWYG
BritExpat, ur asking what now... I'll tell you...
Hizbollah is greatly angered by what is going on in Gaza and May take action. Good or Bad?!
Bad: if they take action from Lebanese lands, it will expand into Lebanon and a repition of July 2006 War will happen.
Good: Palestinians needs help, Arab leaders are just sitting there watching the events and shaking their heads when action needs to be taken. But the action should be taken from Within Palestinian lands and not any other location.
Its gonna get worse to get better.. but when it gets better.. in whose opinion?!
I dunno really... this is definitely gonna expand if nothing is done ASAP to stop it! Israel is like one hungry monster devouring all on its way and no one is able to stop it... sheesh it is ONE Country Surrounded By the gulf countries on one side and the Ocean on the Other.. who should be the one scared?!
The Arabs are fools! all we know how to do is Talk and talk..
WYSIWYG
EM Palestinians are pushed to wall and you want them to show patience and tolerance till they are buried in the wall!
and this is the second ensha'alah
two soldiers of the "brave israelian" was captured
First of all, it's very sad to see our brothers and sisters being killed.
Initially, I thought that UkEngQatar was right in that the attacks are politically motivated for next month's elections. But looking at the events unfolding, it's not true. ummjake - very well said.
UkEQ - "They want to humiliate the Arab and show them that they can do what ever they want and no one in the world can do any thing to them."
I doubt it. It's not that shallow an intention. They are protecting their people. During the ceasefire, BOTH sides were preparing to defend themselves. Israel happened to be better prepared. They are also not targeting civilians - warning them and giving time to evacuate, etc.
Why are people blind to that fact that Hamas uses civilians as shields and to put pressure on the rest of the world to accede to their demands? All in the name of THEIR own interpretation of God's wishes. I wish they would walk the path of peace and tolerance while maintaining the sanctity of Islam as Qatar has shown.
/I'm not saying this because I need to work here. I have other options but I chose to be here for the learning experience esp. a different perspective of Islam.
*****************************************
Don't want no drama,
No, no drama, no, no, no, no drama
"Peace be with those brave men of Israel, may this be a short war for all concerned. I hope not too many civilians get killed.. " Timtan
That you should explain Timtan if you made a realistic wish.
Israel cann't get peace unless it captured all palestine and finished all palestinians. Isn't your wish totaly unrealistic? If you really wish life for palestinians then force Israel to create a palestinian state giving them enough room.
Ummjake.. nice to see a view from the otherside in a nice way.. Even if the end result is ending in the killing of the innocent mases. The Israelis are not there to eliminate Hamas as most of their leaders are living abroad with posh cars etc.
I say it again it just a political stunt by the Israelis in the name of Hamas..
-----------------
HE WHO DARES WINS
Timtan, you wish peace for Israelis and life for palestinians! How is it possible man?
If that doesn't sound too much like an oxymoron ("humane attacks")...Calling up cilivilans and giving them 15 minutes warning to leave before the bombs hit? Firing half a dozen warning shots around targets before actually demolishing them (to further warn civilians to get out of harm's way)? What more do people expect or want? If you look at the casualties from the first 1-3 days of this offensive, you'd see that fewer than 20% of the deaths were civilians. Obviously, that number has risen as the attacks have continued, but when you're dealing with a group like Hamas -- a group that builds tunnels under civilian neighborhoods, that hides weapons in schools and mosques, that has militants hunker down near people's houses -- then I am confused how people are surprised and outraged that innocents get killed when Israel responds to Hamas firing missiles across its borders (missiles that target, I might add, any poor person who happens to get hit; they're not firing at the IDF specifically).
I also find it interesting that when Israel sais they would be agreeable to a second truce with the condition of international monitors, Hamas flatly refused that offer. Seems to me that Hamas is all too willing to risk innocent Palestinians' lives in this conflict...
they can also send in special forces and take people out the old fashioned way...of course..that's supposedly against all rules...but killing mass quantities of people is ok???
Grant me the senility to forget the people I never liked,the good fortune to run into the ones I do,and the eyesight to tell the difference.
timtan this attack on GAZA in nothing but a political stunt for the next month Isreali elections. Brave Israelis my ass..
With all the sophiticate armour that they have they can pin point and kill only the millitants, not the innocent. Majority of the killed are innocent and as the 3 or 4 Israelis that got got killed by these micky mouse rockets.
-----------------
HE WHO DARES WINS
where are all the Arab nations during all this? I haven't seen any actions from them at all, backing their own.
UKeng...you talk about the UN not doing anything without the US's nod...The UN could if they could if they wanted to, but they don't. America isn't that all fired powerful that they can change an entire world's mindset. I do wish that the US would shake free of Israel and let them stand on their own...but then again, I'd like to see that happen all over the world.
Now that being said...I hate to see that things have escalated as far as they have. I don't care if you are Jewish or Muslim...people being killed is just wrong...
Grant me the senility to forget the people I never liked,the good fortune to run into the ones I do,and the eyesight to tell the difference.
Not sure how old these are but supposedly 22 minutes ago for one of them:
http://ca.news.yahoo.com/s/afp/090104/world/mideast_conflict_gaza
http://ca.news.yahoo.com/s/capress/un_israel_palestinians
http://ca.news.yahoo.com/s/reuters/090104/world/international_us_palestinians_israel
***
Veni, Vedi, Visa ~ I came, I saw, I shopped
Nothing is fair in this cruel world. I hope some day GOD do a brain wash of all Mankind and every one gets peacefull.
What I believe is that Israel is never going to give the land back and palestinians will never stop firing rockets even what ever the outcome of the war. I hope poor civilians dont die. I hope innocent children dont die. I hope Arabs should learn now to sit together. I hope people get courage to say the truth. I hope ...........
Peace.
Anyone who kills innocent unarmed person is not brave timtan but a coward. Get your fact right mate. This is not a fighting of two army's but supression of the masses by one of the world's cruelist army.
-----------------
HE WHO DARES WINS
like the hidden one under the car
maybe this time, UN will not need a "nod" from US anymore. maybe this is the time in history ... i saw the live coverage this morning. Israel army looks all geared up, they have that advantage. But I believe when a nation have been oppressed long enough, and an influential and politically-willed leader has come, bloodshed will happen, then liberation and independence.
I came from a nation that was occupied for centuries! but liberation came after so many revolts from our people. these people of Hamas are paying the price today for the freedom of their children's children tomorrow. just as we Filipinos didn't have to be born in an occupied country, we were born already freed from any foreign occupation, no siege, no blockades.
we hope to live to see this day, an arab state for the Palestinians.
all sympathy of the children of Gaza.
Totally agree BritExpat.. It nothing but another Department of the US adminstration only passes the resolutions that suit the US, and ofcourse Israel.
-----------------
HE WHO DARES WINS
The gutless UN Security council has broken up without agreeing on a statement - Surprise, Surprise..
It's time the U.N was disbanded. Think of the billions we could save.
"But if the enemy incline towards peace, do thou ( also) incline towards peace" (The Quran 8:61)
UkEngQatar,you ask: "..How are they protecting their people..?"
here you go… By barking at someone innocent like myself, just because he/she happened to express his/her peaceful proposal.. :(
*********************
“You become responsible forever for what you have tamed”. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
...that I really thought it was that flag and forgot the facts and somewhat similar flag colors outside Qatar...
Did you know I used to memorize all the flags in the world when I was in high school? My other favorite pastime.
"Everything in this book may be wrong." Illusions: The Adventures of The Reluctant Messiah by Richard Bach
Indian flag
Draccy.. lol.. you are a big master of finding every time an appropriate image for each topic..:):)
btw, thanks again... lately you became my guardian angel... :):)..anyway, can Dracula be an Angel at the same time?
*********************
“You become responsible forever for what you have tamed”. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Heero u Dumbo its the Iranian no Indian Flag..lol
-----------------
HE WHO DARES WINS
نزار ريان May God guide you my friend..Goodnight.
To love God is to love his people..
-----------------
HE WHO DARES WINS
What's the Indian flag doing there? LOL
You forgot China...
"Everything in this book may be wrong." Illusions: The Adventures of The Reluctant Messiah by Richard Bach
نزار ريان the next thing you will be saying is the Good men like Osama Bind Laden. Anyone who preaches hatred and war without thinking about peace is a very dangerous person or orgnisation.
Israeli's claim that they are protecting their people from rockets from Gaza. I wish there was some Arab country that could also protect the Palestinains from the bombs of the cruel Israeli army. This not a fighting but a punishment for the Gazans for the action of the few. I know how you feel. But where are the Hamas brothers now.. How are they protecting their people from these atrocities of the Israelis. But just provoking the Israelis by pointless little rockets.
May Allah protect the dignity and homour of your people and give you unity to fight the evil force.
-----------------
HE WHO DARES WINS
UkEngQatar, you are right.. i would say, ESPECIALLY after loosing friends and family members, one has to put as much efforts as he/she can into the PEACE MATTER, not into WAR!! why people don't understand this simple truth!
*********************
“You become responsible forever for what you have tamed”. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
UkEngQatar, sending them to filipins could be a great solution, by the way.. much less Filipinas broken hearts, for sure.. coz in general, arabs are great husbands!!
*********************
“You become responsible forever for what you have tamed”. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Even after loosing them I still preach tolerance, peace and the true dignity of every humanbeing..
-----------------
HE WHO DARES WINS
I know what it means by being blown up. I was just ten minutes away from being blown up by some confused muslim sucide bombers in London. I lost a number of friends and family in that bombing so dont preach me about dignity mate..
-----------------
HE WHO DARES WINS
The palestinain are being humiliated and the so called Arab brothers are just watching. I feel for you, but please understand the ground reality.
-----------------
HE WHO DARES WINS
نزار ريان you talk about honour and dignity.. My friend the so called honour and dignity was lost when your other bretheren Arab countries accepted Israel. SO get real and accept the fact first and then talk about dignity. The honour and dignity of the palestinians was lost when one palestinain started killing each other for political gain (Hamas V Fateh). So at present the biggest enemy is within Palestine.
-----------------
HE WHO DARES WINS
I'm saving lives with my suggestion. Both sides.
You cannot force them warmongers to stop the wars. Let them make war. Transfer the Palestinian population anywhere outside the territory. Push the Israeli population out of the war territory too. Let the warmongers die with their own wars.
Solved.
"Everything in this book may be wrong." Illusions: The Adventures of The Reluctant Messiah by Richard Bach
Heero go back to bed.. Why dont we send them to Philipines and give them one of you many Islands.. Be real man this is serious situation. Peoples lives are being lost. We need to stop the bombing/rockets on both sides.
-----------------
HE WHO DARES WINS
QS he is blinded like everyone who thinks that they will have all the land back. CEASEFIRE is most important call of time..
When there is no tolerance there is only hatred..
-----------------
HE WHO DARES WINS
Either other Muslim/Arab countries accept the Palestinian population transfer or just let them die in their homeland...
"Everything in this book may be wrong." Illusions: The Adventures of The Reluctant Messiah by Richard Bach
Maybe Gaza tragedy might affected the one or the other family-member or friend of you.
If so, I either wish this family member/friend to get well soon or in worst case please take my sincere condolences!
But, please don't be angry here, in qatarliving site.
Gaza tragedy isn't because of people like Qatarisun!
Believe me, my friend!
have no honor like me? eh? what does THAT suppose to mean?
نزار ريان , you are blinded by your own hatred,
and blood thirsty.. why wouldn’t you let some peaceful friendly thoughts into your mind?? Let some tolerance and love into your heart?
*********************
“You become responsible forever for what you have tamed”. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
QS I agree and support you that all hostilities should end immediately.. What نزار ريان is saying is to free or recapture the land that they lost. That can nly be done with outside intervention, When the Palestinains are united and strong as their enemy. At the moment they are not even united let alone strong. Israel is the 51st state of USA and they will never turn away from them. And Palestinians will never get the land by fighting alone.. only with diplomacy and talks..
-----------------
HE WHO DARES WINS
Abu.. there is one state now, called Israel, there is nothing to creat... i don't really get what you mean by 1 state..
*********************
“You become responsible forever for what you have tamed”. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
I said it before: Get the Palestinians out of there. They're outnumbered.
http://www.qatarliving.com/node/310893
"Everything in this book may be wrong." Illusions: The Adventures of The Reluctant Messiah by Richard Bach
نزار ريان, you see? This is the problem.. because of people like yourself, more and more kids and women will be killed…
Draccy, they don’t have to mix and work together. Egyptians and Jordanians don’t mix and work together with israelians.. but each one MINDS THEIR OWN BUSINESS! and guess what, IT WORKS! it means it might work with other countries as well...
Platao, i agree with you... 2 states must be created and a lot - but a lot - of peace observers must be presented there for at least 6-8 years...
*********************
“You become responsible forever for what you have tamed”. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Abu, i am sorry.. i cannot trust your maps... but please, it's not about YOURSELF, it's just about the information that comes from your side...based on your other posts.. again, please it's not against you personally… but for me the sources that you use in your posts seem to be very much doubtful..
This is first...
the second, what would be YOUR suggestion to finish this bloody conflict? ONE state, named - WHAT?
*********************
“You become responsible forever for what you have tamed”. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
This is why i think all Europe should stand together, the US would have more probs in not allowing such decisions, the europe together could alone send enough armies to control the borders
Only God Can Judge Me
الله فقط يمكنه محاكمتي
I am you and you are me, if you love i love, if you suffer i suffer
أنا أنت, و أنت أنا, إذا أحببت نفسك أحببت نفسي, إذا عانيتَ عانيتُ
Pace in Gaza?
Peace can surely only emerge if the people of the region are free to mix and work together.
It's works in ex Yugoslavian conflict.
But in Middle East?
Peace between powerful Israel and and 1,5 mil. Palestinians living below the poverty line...?
I don't think so!
Yes britex and nadt:
"More killing of innocent!"
Platao36.. Nothing in UN gets a go ahead without the US nod. US will never allow that..
-----------------
HE WHO DARES WINS
QS They will distroy all the rocket launchers.. but what about the hands that throw the stones. It not the rocket that they are after. They want to humiliate the Arab and show them that they can do what ever they want and no one in the world can do any thing to them..
The horrific backclash will the return of the sucide bombers..
-----------------
HE WHO DARES WINS
I think united nations should send militar forces to control their borders
Only God Can Judge Me
الله فقط يمكنه محاكمتي
I am you and you are me, if you love i love, if you suffer i suffer
أنا أنت, و أنت أنا, إذا أحببت نفسك أحببت نفسي, إذا عانيتَ عانيتُ
PM, I guess they hope to destroy all the rockets production plants, so that nothing will backfire on them.. i guess..
*********************
“You become responsible forever for what you have tamed”. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
I hope after that mess whole world have to realize that there is no any other choice for both sides except of tolerance...based on two-states solution... even though establishing of two states is dangerous enough...
*********************
“You become responsible forever for what you have tamed”. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Lets hope something happens that makes both sides get back to the negociating table
Only God Can Judge Me
الله فقط يمكنه محاكمتي
I am you and you are me, if you love i love, if you suffer i suffer
أنا أنت, و أنت أنا, إذا أحببت نفسك أحببت نفسي, إذا عانيتَ عانيتُ
yep Uk, more killings...
More killing of innocent..
-----------------
HE WHO DARES WINS
it will not ever end will it? not in a million years...all we can do is pray... :(
if it gets any better, while we all watch on helplessly.
Its going to get worse before it gets better.