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Naqba rally in Rafah (Archive photo)
Photo: Reuters

Hamas, Fatah to mark 60th anniversary of Palestinian uprooting

Rival factions to hold separate ceremonies marking 'catastrophe' during 1948 war over Israel's creation

Hamas and Fatah say they plan rival ceremonies to mark the 60th anniversary of the uprooting of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians in the 1948 war over Israel's creation.

 

Palestinians refer to the displacement in 1948 as their "Naqba," or catastrophe. In recent years, they have marked the May 15 anniversary with sirens, speeches and rallies.

 

On Sunday, planners from Hamas and Fatah announced separate plans for the memorials. This underscores the growing ideological rift within Palestinian society.

 

The Islamic militant Hamas seized Gaza by force last June. Since then, a Hamas government has ruled Gaza and pro-Western moderates have been in charge in the West Bank.

 

Israel plans a large 60th birthday bash in May, with world leaders in attendance.

 


פרסום ראשון: 04.13.08, 19:56
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