GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip — Hamas eagerly awaits joining the institutions of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), which are controlled by its political rival Fatah, pursuant to the provisions of the reconciliation agreement signed between them in Gaza City at the end of April. Hamas intends to effectively participate in representing the Palestinian people before the regional and international community, as the PLO is considered to be their legitimate representative.
Hamas surrendered governance of the Gaza Strip to the Palestinian unity government formed by President Mahmoud Abbas, once its political and financial prospects as well as its ability to rule the Gaza Strip dwindled. Yet, its current handing over of the reins is conditional on its participation in the PLO, the largest Palestinian organization at home and abroad.
