In the wake of the breakdown in Israeli-Palestinian negotiations, Palestinians living in the West Bank and Gaza Strip launched another uprising against Israel in late September 2000. One of the features of the current uprising has been the outbreak of terrorism and mob violence against Israeli soldiers and civilians.

Palestinian Authority

In clear violation of Israeli-Palestinian agreements in which the Palestinians committed themselves to prevent incitement to violence against Israel and to actively combat terrorism, Palestinian Authority (PA) Chairman Yasir Arafat has permitted the Palestinian media and Islamic religious leaders to preach violence against Jews and Israel, released Hamas and Islamic Jihad terrorists from PA jails, and has reportedly been conducting negotiations with Hamas leaders about forming joint policies toward Israel. More>>

Hamas and Islamic Jihad

Following the outbreak of the current crisis, the two Islamic extremist groups in the territories, Hamas and Islamic Jihad, vowed to renew violent attacks against Israel. Following the supposed cease-fire negotiated between Israeli and Palestinian leaders in October 2000, Hamas spiritual leader Sheik Ahmed Yassin warned that his militants would use "stones, guns and explosions" to drive Israelis out of the Middle East. "We do not accept this or any agreement made by Israel and its supporter America. Our enemy only understands force -- so they will get it soon," Yassin declared in an interview with USA Today. More>>

Hezbollah

In the wake of the current Palestinian uprising, Hezbollah has pledged its support to the Palestinian effort. In a recent interview with Time, Hezbollah secretary-general Hassan Nasrallah said: "There is no doubt that our most important role is in the region. We have experience, and we are ready to help. All means must be used to help the Palestinians. More>>

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