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Wayzata World Factbook 1996
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The World Factbook - 1996 Edition - Wayzata Technology (3079) (1996).iso
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terror
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hamas
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HAMAS (Islamic Resistance Movement)
Description
HAMAS was formed in late 1987 as an outgrowth of the Palestinian branch of
the Muslim Brotherhood and has become Fatah's principal political rival in
the occupied territories. Various elements of HA-KAS have used both
political and violent means, including terrorism, to pursue the goal of
establishing an Islamic Palestinian state in place of Israel. HAMAS is
loosely structured, with some elements working openly through mosques and
social service institutions to recruit members, raise money, organize
activities, and distribute propaganda. Militant elements of HAMAS,
operating clandestinely, have advocated and used violence to advance their
goals. HAMAS's strength is concentrated in the Gaza Strip and a few areas
of the West Bank. It has also engaged in peaceful political activity, such
as running candidates in West Bank chamber of commerce elections.
Activities
HAMAS activists--especially those in the Izz al-Din al-Qassam Forces--have
conducted many attacks against Israeli civilian and military targets,
suspected Palestinian collaborators, and Fatah rivals.
Strength
Unknown number of hardcore members; tens of thousands of supporters and
sympathizers.
Location/Area of Operations
Primarily the occupied territories, Israel, and Jordan.
External Aid
Receives funding from Palestinian expatriates, Iran, and private benefactors
in Saudi Arabia and other moderate Arab states. Some fundraising and
propaganda activity take place in Western Europe and North America.
June 26 1995:
Suicide bomber detonated a cart wounding three Israeli soldiers. Ma'wya Roka
was said to be a member of HAMAS.
June 6, 1995:
45 activists of the militant Islamic group HAMAS arrested.
May 15, 1995:
Sayid Abu Musameh, a high-ranking Hamas official, was convicted and sentenced
for writing "seditious" newspaper articles.
March 1995:
Abd a-Samed Harizat, of HAMAS, died in detention at the hands Shin Bet.
1994:
More than 100 civilians died in Israel, the West Bank and Gaza last year due
to activities of HAMAS or PIJ (Palestinian Islamic Jihad).