Hamas Blocks Pilgrims from Performing Hajj
Hamas has blocked thousands of Pilgrims from making the trip to Mecca “in the latest twist of the territory’s internal political divisions.”
Pilgrims were turned back from the Rafah border by Hamas forces, and some even claimed they were beaten in their attempts to make the Hajj. Egyptian officials have reported that the border has been open for several days in order for pilgrims to pass, placing the responsibility on the shoulders of Hamas.
Pilgrims who applied for visas through Hamas were rejected, bringing into question “Saudi Arabia’s recognition of the Hamas government structure in Gaza as legitimate.”
With Gaza residents already suffering under the strain of closed borders and blockades, Hamas’s mismanagement of the situation could result in resentment against the group. With Abbas, Fatah and the Palestinian Authority attempting to consolidate power, Hamas will need to handle this situation as delicately as possible.
Gavin Yerxa
