Tensions between Fatah and Hamas rise after Gaza explosion

Palestine

Published: 2018-03-16 15:42

Last Updated: 2024-03-28 14:50


Photo of the explosion
Photo of the explosion

Despite attempts of reconciliation, the tension between rivaling Palestinian parties of Fatah and Hamas increased after the convoy of Palestinian Prime Minister, Rami Hamdallah and head of the Palestinian intelligence, Majed Faraj was hit by an explosion earlier on Tuesday.

The head of the Hama Security Forces said they have arrested suspects and are carrying out an investigation.

The PA condemned the attack holding Hamas responsible as it controlled Gaza. Five security guards were injured but neither Hamdallah nor Faraj were harmed in the attack.

Mahmoud Al-Aloul, Vice President of the Palestinian Liberation Organization said they had been working hard to achieve Palestinian unity and that the attack undermines efforts of reconciliation. “We will follow up closely on the incident and how it happened.”, he added, the Jerusalem Post reported.

Palestinian President Advisor, Mahmoud Al-Habbash, said during his Friday prayer speech that the attack hadn't targeted individuals, but the national interest. “We will not let this pass easily, there should be a punishment,” he added.

The two parties signed a reconciliation deal in Oct. 2017 which was brokered by Egypt, trying to end the decade-long split, yet there has been little change on the ground.