Do recent border protests mark turning point for Hamas?
By endorsing calls for peaceful protests along Gaza's border, Hamas is likely looking to capitalize on international sympathy with the Palestinian cause, but some question whether the movement can break its tradition of violence.
GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip — Many questions remain concerning Hamas’ endorsement of the recent protests that broke out March 30 along the Israeli-Gaza border. Mass demonstrations resumed April 13 for the third Friday in a row, and at least 33 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire in the clashes in the past two weeks.
The recurring protests — which Hamas dubbed the Great Return March and are slated to continue until Nakba Day on May 15 — were spearheaded by the Coordination Committee for the Great Return March and planned as peaceful demonstrations.
The pertinent question, however, is what are Hamas' motives for backing these protests? Is it a long-term strategy or merely a short-term tactic?
The Islamic movement has long advocated armed resistance against Israel and criticized the nonviolent resistance style as futile. In a March 29 statement, however, Hamas urged its supporters in the besieged enclave to come out en masse to protest peacefully.
