According to Al Jazeera, Hamas has condemned the Palestinian Authority's (PA) actions against the Jenin Brigades, a coalition of armed groups. The PA forces initiated a crackdown on this group, which has been based in the Jenin refugee camp.
Since early December, the PA has besieged the Jenin camp and cut off water and electricity to most of the inhabitants in an ostensible attempt to restore "law and order" across the West Bank. The PA's measures have been met with severe criticism from various factions, with Hamas being one of the most vocal.
"We warn [the PA] against ignoring national calls that urge an end to the crackdown against our people that only serve the occupation," Hamas said.
The group's strong statement reflects the deep-rooted animosity and mistrust between the two Palestinian factions, further complicating efforts towards unity and stability in the region.
Hamas has called on Palestinian communities across the West Bank to "intervene immediately and stop the bloodshed being committed by PA forces and to end the siege imposed on Jenin refugee camp". This appeal underscores the urgent need for a collective response to what Hamas views as an unjust and detrimental assault by the PA.
The Jenin Brigades, known for their resistance against Israeli forces, have been targeted by the PA in a bid to dismantle what it describes as unlawful militias. However, critics argue that these actions only weaken Palestinian resistance against the Israeli occupation and create internal divisions that benefit external adversaries.
The humanitarian impact of the PA's siege on Jenin has been profound, with residents facing severe shortages of basic necessities. The cut-off of water and electricity has exacerbated living conditions, leading to increased despair and frustration among the camp's population.
The international community has been largely silent on the internal Palestinian conflict, focusing instead on the broader Israeli-Palestinian tensions. However, the situation in Jenin has drawn some attention, with human rights organizations calling for an end to the siege and a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Comments