Hamas Intensifies Gaza 'Islamization'

Hamas has been clamping down on young men wearing waist-down jeans and hair gel, the latest move in the ruling organization’s insidious campaign to “Islamize” Palestinian society in Gaza, writes Hazem Balousha.

Palestine

What Do Peace Envoys Actually Do in the Middle East?

For many years, the world’s powers have been sending envoys to the Middle East to secure peace deals. Given their lack of success, however, Omar Shaban asks what their point is.

Palestine

What Really Happened Between Netanyahu and Obama

From confidential, well-placed sources, Ben Caspit discloses the arguments in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's chambers hidden behind friendly gestures in public during the US president’s visit.

Palestine

Hamas’ Relationship with Qatar Widens Rift With West Bank

Since Qatar has taken the initiative to play a greater regional role, especially regarding the Palestinian cause, many in the West Bank feel it seeks to undermine Fatah’s leadership, writes Hazem Balousha.

Qatar

Meshaal May Face Resistance In His Move Toward Openness

Khaled Meshaal has been re-elected as Hamas’ leader, but as he tries to move toward more openness, he may face resistance from hard-liners inside the movement, writes Adnan Abu Amer.

Palestine

Hamas Friction Continues With UN Relief Agency

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency in Gaza faces increasing difficulty in carrying out its work, as the Hamas-led government claims some of its activities are not in line with the Strip’s Islamic culture and values, writes Hazem Balousha.

Palestine

Obama's Lesson in Zionism

During his visit to Israel, President Barack Obama reminded the world of the values of liberation and self-determination on which Zionism is based, writes Einat Wilf.

Palestine

Israeli Apology Pushes Hamas Away From Turkey

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s apology to Turkish counterpart Erdogan over the Mavi Marmara incident has brought Turkey closer to Israel but pushed Hamas away, writes Adnan Abu Amer.

Palestine

Palestinian Patients Denied Adequate Treatment in Israel

Callousness on the part of Jerusalem, Gaza and Ramallah alike prevents Palestinians from getting life-saving treatment at Israeli hospitals, writes Akiva Eldar.

Palestine

Hamas, Hezbollah Take Opposite Sides in Syria

Hamas and Hezbollah leaders find themselves on opposite sides of the war in Syria, writes Shlomi Eldar. 

Palestine

Surfing in Gaza

Although there is a burgeoning surfing scene in the Gaza Strip, Gazan surfers struggle to find the necessary equipment and facilities, writes Hazem Balousha.

Palestine

Palestinian Authority’s 2013 Budget Passed Despite Political Rift

As political rifts persist among the leaders of the Palestinian Authority, the 2013 budget has been passed with promises of donations from the EU, the US and Arab donors, writes Omar Shaban.

Palestine