Publication

This paper provides background on the seizure of the Gaza strip by Hamas. The authors detail how the move effectively left the Palestinian Territories divided, with the Islamists of Hamas in control of Gaza and Fatah retaining control of the West Bank. The paper explains how the international community has not accepted the takeover by Hamas and continues to cooperate with Fatah and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. The paper outlines the background of the crisis, reviews Hamas' record in government and examines the international reactions. Finally, the paper develops scenarios for the region's prospects.