(AP-Washington Post) Ibrahim Barzak - Huge crowds of flag-waving Hamas supporters clogged the streets of Gaza City Tuesday as tens of thousands turned out to mark the 23rd anniversary of the group's founding. The turnout appeared to be at least on par with previous years for an event billed by Gaza's rulers as a referendum on their popularity. Hamas claimed it was a record crowd. But support for Hamas is difficult to gauge because Gazans fear repercussions if they speak freely. Hamas control remains unchallenged, but some analysts detect growing impatience with Gaza's isolation and Hamas' moves to impose strict Islamic mores and stifle dissent.
2010-12-15 10:46:17Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive