Counterterrorism Blog

NEFA: Slain Hamas Militant Challenges Political Leadership Over Participation in Democratic Elections, "Supporting the Christians"

By Evan Kohlmann

Thumb_nefahamasqaida0608.jpgThe NEFA Foundation has obtained a new video from dissident members of the Izzadeen al-Qassam Brigades - the military wing of the Hamas terrorist organization in the Palestinian territories - of their recently slain comrade Rami Abu Suweirah (a.k.a. Abu Huzaifah) condemning the political leadership of Hamas for their decision to participate in democratic elections in the Palestinian territories, and for various other “violations of Shariah.” Abu Suweirah insisted, “I… pledge my innocence before Allah from having… participat[ed] in elections, entering polytheistic councils, making visits to infidel and apostate countries, congratulating and supporting the Christians… As for their supporters, policemen, intelligence agencies, and bodyguards—to all of you, we say: we wash our hands of you, and from what you worship in place of Allah. We wash our hands of your laws and courthouses, your methodology and constitutions. We wash our hands of your governments and courthouses, your slogans and foolish symbols. We have no faith in you, and hostility and permanent hatred have arisen between us forever.”

The video can be viewed on the NEFA Foundation website. (Arabic translation by CEIFIT)