[JTA] Erica Silverman - Ibrahim Al-Najar used to operate his own egg distribution business in Gaza City until about a year ago, when he was beaten and robbed at gunpoint. Politically independent until then, he sold his business and joined Hamas' security forces. "At least now I know that my family is safe," he said. For many Gazans, the security has come at a heavy price. Women and young people feel pressured by the police presence to conform to Hamas' religious norms. "Security has been achieved through fear," said political analyst Talal Okal, "but we do not want the corrupt leaders back." Hamas has adopted a number of measures that have reduced the type of gang-style violence that was typical when Gaza was ruled by Fatah. Police are deployed across the city, civilians are forbidden from carrying arms in the street, face masks are banned and Hamas police are quick to respond to complaints. Carjackings, kidnappings and violent family disputes have declined significantly.
2008-04-07 01:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive