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Source: http://www.bitterlemons.org/issue/isr2.php
Recognizing Hamas is Irresponsible
(bitterlemons.org) Yossi Beilin - The Oslo agreement was signed in 1993 on the basis of a mutual agreement that political negotiations would replace the use of force. There was concern at the time lest parties not obligated by the Oslo principles would seek to participate in elections. The principal worry was Hamas. In order to ensure that such parties do not participate in elections and do not abuse the democratic process, it was determined that "The nomination of any candidates, parties or coalitions will be refused, and such nomination or registration will be canceled, if such candidates, parties or coalitions (1) commit or advocate racism, or (2) pursue the implementation of their aims by unlawful non-democratic means." There can be no doubt that participation by Hamas in elections held in the PA in January 2006 is a gross violation of the Israeli-Palestinian interim agreement. Hamas is a movement that has, through its covenant, raised the banner of incitement to hate and kill Jews. That this military organization, appearing as a political party, is allowed to abuse democracy is a prize for terror and violence.