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Confusing diplomatic developments on the Fatah-Hamas front: Abu Mazen has about-faced by saying Israel need not be recognized, and Hamas is giving signs of recognizing the Oslo Acords.
In order to win recognition by the West, Hamas is expected to recognize both Israel and previous agreements Fatah has signed with Israel, as well as renounce terrorism. Even Fatah leader Abu Mazen has said that he would not join a unity government with Hamas unless these conditions are fulfilled.
It was reported today, in the name of Palestinian Authority sources, that Hamas had finally come around to fulfilling one of the three conditions demanded by the U.S. - namely, that it would "honor agreements signed by the PA."
Wow! Looks like Hamas is really coming around. Maybe they are interested in peace after all. (Uh oh, better read the fine-print):
However, what was under-reported was the Hamas stipulation that it would recognize these agreements only "in such a way that would guarantee the ultimate rights and interests of the Palestinians."
Hamas also continues to insist on its right to use "legitimate means" - i.e., terrorism - to "free their land and end the occupation." No mention was made, in the newly-announced Hamas stance, of a Hamas recognition of Israel's right to exist.
Oh well.
