Hamas must be banned from Palestinian Authority elections – comment

The article argues that Hamas must be banned from participating in Palestinian Authority elections, citing the negative consequences of its 2006 electoral victory. In 2006, the US, under the "freedom agenda," pushed for Hamas's inclusion despite Israeli objections, with National Security Adviser Stephen Hadley stating, "Only when Palestinians are able freely to express themselves through ballots rather than bombs will we be able to get on the road to security for Israel." Hamas, running as "Change and Reform," won the election, leading to its violent takeover of Gaza in 2007. The author contends that allowing Hamas to participate again, especially given recent polling showing significant Palestinian support for the October 7 attack and Hamas, would legitimize a group committed to Israel's destruction and lead to further violence. The piece concludes that the lesson from 2006 is clear: "Never again allow Hamas to take part in an election."