The evolution of the European position towards Hamas ( 2006-2017)

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the development of the European position towards Hamas during its presence in the Palestinian resistance (1987 - 2005) and after its transition to work in the political field after its victory in the second legislative elections in 2006, with reference to the nature of Hamas' interaction with the European position.

The researchers used the descriptive analytical approach, and the study reached a set of results, the most important of which is: Hamas was unable to open channels of communication with many active European Union countries such as Germany, Britain and France. Rather, these countries were obstacles to Hamas' progress in its foreign relations with European countries. Nor did European countries enjoy impartiality and objectivity, as they clearly sided with the Israeli occupation at the expense of Palestinian rights.

The study recommended a set of recommendations, the most important of which are: Hamas must redraw its strategies if it maintains its aspirations to participate in the Palestinian political system, in a way that makes it more acceptable to deal with the international community. Hamas must invest its foreign relations with Qatar and Turkey in inaugurating channels of communication with the European Union countries and some active countries in the international community.