Fatah wins local elections despite key Hamas gains

Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas’ ruling Fatah movement fended off a strong challenge by the Islamic militant group Hamas in local elections in the West Bank and Gaza Strip today, with Fatah winning 56% and Hamas with 33% of the vote.

The corruption-tainted Fatah had feared defeat in the elections, but the results indicated the party won a majority of the races in 84 communities. However, Hamas established itself as a major political player, and won the three biggest contests – in the towns of Qalqiliya, Rafah and Beit Lahiya.