Home inContext Fatah Computer SNAFU Sends Cash to Hamas

Fatah Computer SNAFU Sends Cash to Hamas

Jonathan Schanzer
SOURCE

In a monumental SNAFU, reported by the Palestinian Maan news agency today, Fatah transfered 12 months worth of salaries to Hamas’ 3,500 special security forces. The transfer was described as a “computer error.”

Hamas believes the move constitutes “recognition of the special security forces by the West Bank government and President Abu Mazen (Mahmoud Abbas).” Abbas, however, reiterated his rejection of Hamas. Nonetheless, Abbas just paid for Hamas to continue controlling Gaza – a complete contravention of US, Israeli and Palestinian Authority strategy.

Meanwhile, the Maan news agency reports this morning that talks are underway between Hamas and Fatah over the formation of a
second unity government. Is Abbas beginning to crack already?