While Canadians voted in a new Conservative leader today, the Palestinians are holding their first election since 1996 which many believe is key in the Palestinian push for statehood. Hamas candidates have entered the race and their popularity makes them running a close second to Fatah.
While campaigning, Hamas says a truce could be on the table, yet in one ad which was rebroadcast by CNN, Hamas shows footage of militants and states: "We will not rest as long as one inch of our holy land is in the hands of the Jews. Our flags will fly over the minarets of Jerusalem."
Hamas boycotted the last election in 1996 but could win one-third of the 132 seats in the Palestinian Legislative Council.
Mahmoud Abbas, is "hoping Hamas will be tamed by mainstream politics, that the day-to-day duties of government -- such as running schools, hospitals and garbage collection -- will lead to pragmatic change within the group." But, Abbas, the current head of the PA (Palestinian Authority) faces great losses for his party as shown in this graphic from the Christian Science Monitor
If anyone thought there was a chance of peace in the Middle East, by efforts such as pulling Israeli's out of their homes in Gaza, a win for Hamas in the PA government should shake them out of their fantasy.
Such as Jimmy Carter seen here for a meeting at the headquarters of the Palestinian Authority president.
Related:
Why Hamas is Gaining in the Polls
Can Moderate Abbas Weather Hama's Rise?
Divisions in Fatah give hope to Hamas as Palestinians go to polls
Israelis fear Hamas 'terror state'
'Bombs are not forbidden. But we now have other ways'
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