Why Did the People of Gaza Choose Hamas to Govern?

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has seen many shifts and alliances over the years. One pivotal choice was when the people of Gaza elected Hamas as their governing body. This decision can be understood within the complex web of political, social, and historical factors that have shaped the region.

The Political Context

Hamas, with a clear agenda to eliminate Israel, emerged as a formidable political and military force in Gaza. Its successful resistance against Israeli incursions and its ability to provide basic services to Gaza residents directly influenced the populace's choice. In many elections, the people of Gaza have prioritized survival and stability over ideological purity, often voting for candidates who can deliver immediate and tangible benefits.

The Social Dynamics

Within Gaza, consanguineous marriage is a common practice, leading to close-knit communities. People often vote for relatives, reinforcing social cohesion. This practice is not unique to Hamas supporters; it is a widespread tradition in many parts of the Middle East. However, this social dynamic played a significant role in Hamas's rise to power.

Historical Analogies and Comparisons

Many have drawn parallels between Hamas and historical figures or movements, such as Hitler and the Nazis. There are indeed some eerie similarities. Both movements exploited democratic means to gain power, then quickly dismantled democratic structures. Both used punitive measures to maintain control, and both enjoyed the support of a significant portion of the populace.

While the analogy is not perfect, it is important to recognize these historical patterns. It is crucial to understand that both movements shared a common hatred towards certain groups and sought to implement extreme measures to protect their visions.

Democracy and Governance

The choice between Hamas and other parties was often a choice between less corruption and better service delivery. Hamas's parent organization, the Muslim Brotherhood, was founded as a civil service organization in Egypt. The organization's reputation for providing basic services was a key factor in its rise to power in Gaza.

However, it is essential to note that the people of Gaza did not choose Hamas for freedom. In fact, Hamas has a history of eliminating political opponents and silencing dissent. The phrase "I like you" became a common response from Gazans who were fearful of retribution if they did not conform.

The Role of External Actors

The Israeli government had a role in bringing Hamas to power. Initially, they supported Hamas to counter the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) and Fatah, which were more open to a two-state solution. However, when it became apparent that there was no real intention from the Israeli side to achieve this solution, they had to resort to other methods.

Enter Hamas. By supporting this organization, Israel hoped to undermine the PLO and Fatah and fuel the resistance against their policies. This strategic move has had long-lasting consequences, election results aside.

Conclusion

The decision by the people of Gaza to elect Hamas as their leaders is a complex process influenced by social, political, and historical factors. While the analogy between Hamas and other extremist groups is imperfect, it is valuable to understand these historical parallels. Ultimately, the choice reflects a need for immediate stability and a lack of better alternatives.

This article aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the reasons behind Hamas's rise to power in Gaza, emphasizing the multifaceted aspects that shaped this choice.