PLO and Hamas: Opponents, but Both "for Palestine"

PLO and Hamas, both supporting Palestine, complicate the Gaza conflict. Media emphasis on IDF-Hamas clashes oversimplifies Palestinian-Israeli tensions. Recent polls show only 30% support for Hamas among Arabs in Gaza and the West Bank; others prefer different movements or none.

The PLO, less known but historically significant, governed until 2013, when the PNA replaced it, recognized by the UN. Hamas, rejecting Israel's existence, collaborates militarily with the Islamic Jihad. Relations with the PLO are complex; Hamas gained power in Gaza in 2007 after a conflict with Fatah.

Israel indirectly contributed to Hamas' rise in the 70s-80s. No open enmity for mutual destruction exists between Fatah and Hamas.

The evolving Middle East situation may strengthen the PNA and Fatah. If efforts to overthrow Hamas bring it back to power, questions may arise in Israeli society. The PNA and PLO appear more preferable.