Mideast Media Sampler 12/27/11: A Hamas Split? Can There Be Enough Anti-Netanyahu Stations?

Mideast Media Sampler 12/27/11

by DG:


1) Will Hamas split or co-opt?


Jonathan Schanzer asks Will Hamas splinter as external leaders seek a new home?

December 21 was a big day in Palestinian politics, as the terrorist group Hamas reportedly agreed to join the Palestine Liberation Organization. If Hamas seals the deal, it is widely expected that it will renounce violence just as the PLO did. 

But it may not be that simple. Hamas cadres are not of one mind on key issues such as the use of violence and political participation. 

As a result, Hamas could splinter.

Shhhhh, Don't Tell Iran That Hamas Is Leaving Syria...

Hamas knows its time to leave Syria--Hamas just can't afford to say publicly that they are leaving Syria:

Dozens of Hamas operatives have quietly returned to Gaza from Damascus as the Islamist group scales back its presence in Syria and gauges the uncertain future of President Bashar al-Assad, diplomats said on Sunday.