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The Price of a Palestinian Unity Government

[Washington Institute for Near East Policy] David Makovsky - Fatah and Hamas are considering the reestablishment of a Palestinian unity government. Although many scenarios are possible, most likely, Hamas would emerge as the big winner, with Fatah's standing greatly damaged. Hamas leaders have steadily maintained that they want a unity agreement that allows for "resistance" or, in other words, violence. It is hard to envision a unity agreement that does not involve Hamas' integration into the security services. As one senior Palestinian said, it would be "suicidal" for the PA to allow this. Any government in which PA Prime Minister Fayad does not have control over security and finance could end the U.S. effort led by Lt. Gen. Keith Dayton to train Palestinian security officials. It would also end Israeli-Palestinian security cooperation. If Hamas gains a share of power without accepting the Quartet principles, it would gain legitimacy without paying any price. It will remain in firm control of Gaza, seek to control the funds for Gaza's reconstruction, be in a position to unravel Fayad's critical security and financial reforms, and ensure that prospects for peace remain bleak. A lopsided prisoner exchange with Israel will also bolster Hamas - at Abbas' expense.
2009-03-16 06:00:00
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