The Palestinian Initiative for the Promotion of Global Dialogue and Democracy (MIFTAH) strongly condemns the recent infighting in the Gaza Strip, which has resulted in the deaths of three Palestinians and the injury of 10 others.

The fighting, which took place in eastern Khan Younis, apparently erupted after mutual kidnappings of members from Hamas and Fateh took place. According to local police, the seven were safely released and an agreement between prominent personalities in the area was reached to maintain calm. However, clashes resumed, resulting in the deaths of Abdel Rahman Ismail Al Daghmeh, 26, Mohammed Ahmad Al Jarf 25, both from Fateh’s military wing the Aqsa Martyrs Brigades, and Wasfi Shaker Shahwan, 22, a member of Hamas’ Izzedin Qassam Brigades.

MIFTAH is deeply concerned about these recent events in light of the repercussions they will have on internal Palestinian affairs during this crucial period. MIFTAH calls on all parties involved, in particular Fateh and Hamas, to calm the situation by promoting national unity. It also calls on the government and official authorities to bear their responsibilities in controlling the situation and holding those responsible for the chaos and the use of arms accountable for their actions.

MIFTAH also supports the initiative announced by the Interior Ministry to open an investigation into the events, considering their gravity, and calls on those responsible for conducting this investigation to thoroughly and efficiently look into this dangerous development.

MIFTAH would like to reiterate the importance of national unity among the Palestinians at this time. Efforts should be channeled towards building a sound and effective government and society in the face of the tremendous pressures on the Palestinians including ongoing Israeli attacks and international condemnation and boycott of the new government.

MIFTAH calls on the government and factions in the Gaza Strip to immediately find ways to halt the infighting for the benefit of the Palestinian people at large and to continue to promote open dialogue and national unity. Infighting and disunity can only exasperate the already difficult situation under which the Palestinians live.