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Hamas Makes Gaza More Islamist

(Ha'aretz) Avi Issacharoff - Hamas rule in Gaza has only become more firmly established since the coup of June 2007. Fatah has nearly ceased to exist in the public domain. At the same time, Hamas is making great efforts to compete with the rising popularity of Islamic extremists. Hamas is offering afternoon religion lessons in government offices and is also encouraging the activities of sharia courts at the expense of the civil ones. In schools and universities, religious curricula have been expanded. Islamic reconciliation committees operate throughout the Strip, mediating in disputes between families and individuals. Many markets and shops close now on Fridays, and men and women sit in separate areas on the beaches. The Hamas government prohibits the wearing of immodest garments in schools, and favors uniforms for students. The parliament in Gaza, which consists entirely of Hamas members, recently discussed the implementation of sharia-style punishment (for example, cutting off a thief's hand). The Hamas Ministry of Religion puts up posters throughout Gaza encouraging women to dress modestly, not only in the hijab, but also in long dresses. Merchants are asked not to dress female store-window mannequins in immodest garments, as well as to remove their heads.
2009-12-04 07:47:09
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