In Gaza, rise of Hamas military wing complicates reconciliation with Fatah

[oberliner]

Abu Khaled has been a member of Hamas's military wing for 11 years and he looks the part. His thick beard, black clothes, and serious face bear witness to his rise through the ranks to become one of the leaders of the Ezzedine Al Qassam Brigades in the northern Gaza town of Beit Hanoun, near Israel's border.

But at this moment, as he softly sings along with popular Arabic pop singer Elissa in a deserted Gaza restaurant, it's hard to believe he fought in the fierce 2007 battle that expelled Fatah, Hamas's secular rival, from Gaza.

When asked about reconciliation with Fatah, however, he snaps back into the role of tough militant leader.

"There is no reconciliation," he says sharply. "How can I reconcile with someone who killed my brother?"

http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Middle-East/2010/1104/In-Gaza-rise-of-Hamas-military-wing-complicates-reconciliation-with-Fatah

[sabbat hunter]

1. that is the problem when dealing with

Fanatics and nuts. They don't see a bigger picture of what is good for everyone, but only what makes them feel good. Hamas is unfortunately full of fanatics and nuts. Just like Lieberman of Israel is a nutbag.