Perhaps signaling the continued decline in PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas’ (Abu Mazen) rule over PA (Palestinian Authority) autonomous areas, the PA in a precedent setting move on Monday announced its approval for Hamas to hold 25th anniversary parades throughout PA areas. This was not the case in past years since Hamas took over Gaza. One such parade is set for Shechem on Thursday, 29 Kislev 5773.

It is clear that Hamas is gaining support among PA residents and critics of the Netanyahu administration warn by shunning the PA leader and not resuming diplomatic negotiations with Abu Mazen, Israel is blazing the path for Hamas to assume control of all autonomous areas, a move that will bring terrorism to Israel’s doorstep from its borders within.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)