The Historical Antecedents of Hamas

Abstract

One of the unresolved dilemmas in the Israeli—Palestinian peace process is whether peace is possible without, or feasible with, Hamas. This article seeks to explain why Israeli policies have thus far failed and why the inclusion of Hamas in the peace process is more likely to produce a lasting peace. Using data drawn from interviews, fieldwork and surveys, and theoretical perspectives from peace and social movement studies, the article analyses the evolution Hamas has undergone since its inception and how changes in its leadership, constituency and political culture have affected the movement's attitudes towards peace and compromise.