Hamas security arrested dozens of supporters of the rival Fatah group, hurled grenades at the home of one Fatah leader and set up checkpoints across Gaza on Saturday, following a mysterious beachside blast that killed five Hamas members and a 6-year-old girl.
Hamas leaders blamed Fatah for Friday's explosion, and began the toughest crackdown against the rival group in recent months. A Gaza-based human rights group reported Hamas security officials arrested at least 160 Fatah loyalists, and some 40 institutions connected to the group were raided. Fatah leaders denied involvement, and an aide to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said the crackdown is reducing prospects for eventual reconciliation.
I fear for the cause of Palestinian unity
|