Hamas' 31 Aug and 1 Sept attacks against Israeli civilians underlines the groups strong opposition to US-backed peace talks in Washington between their main Palestinian rival, Fatah, and its arch enemy, Israel. Hamas, which ousted Fatah in 2007 from the Gaza Strip, essentially gifting Fatah the West Bank and an opportunity to pursue economic recovery and peace, remains deeply opposed to the Israeli state and continues to stake its legitimacy on this single point. They have been given the opportunity in the past to renounce violence against Israel; however, if they were to do so there would be two results 1. Hamas would reach a peace deal with Fatah and Israel 2. Hamas would lose all credibility as a resistance movement. This is unlikely to happen, so enter Hamas militants and aggressive tactics designed to undermine Fatah's own credibility.
Hamas though are, as an organisation, not stupid. They have realised that they can not exist in the international community without accepting Israel or acting like a real government. In the recent past they have been quietly approached by and have approached the European Union, perhaps to act as intermediaries between them and the international community. However, their integration into the global order will take time, time they do not have or can afford, particularly as their main rival seems intent on pursuing its own course...and at a fairly high pace. Bottom line - Expect more Hamas attacks.
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