From: Patterns of Global Terrorism. United States Department of State Publication 10321
Other Names
Al-'Asifa
Description
Headed by Yasser Arafat, Fatah joined the PLO in 1968 and won the leadership
role in 1969. Its commanders were expelled from Jordan following violent
confrontations with Jordanian forces during the period 1970-71, beginning
with Black September in 1970. The Israeli invasion of Lebanon in 1982 led
to the group's dispersal to several Middle Eastern countries, including
Tunisia, Yemen, Algeria, Iraq, and others. Maintains several military and
intelligence wings that have carried out terrorist attacks, including Force
17 and the Western Sector. Two of its leaders, Abu Jihad and Abu Iyad, were
assassinated in recent years.
Activities
In the 1960s and the 1970s, Fatah offered training to a wide range of
European, Middle Eastern, Asian, and African terrorist and insurgent groups.
Carried out numerous acts of international terrorism in western Europe and
the Middle East in the early-tomiddle 1970s. Arafat signed the Declaration
of Principles (DOP) with Israel in 1993 and renounced terrorism and
violence. There has been no authorized terrorist operation since that time.
Strength
6,000 to 8,000
Location/Area of Operation
Headquartered in Tunisis, with bases in Lebanon and other Middle Eastern
countries.
External Aid
Has had close political and financial ties to Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and
other moderate Gulf states. These relations were disrupted by the Gulf
crisis of 1990-91. Also had links to Jordan. Received weapons, explosives,
and training from the former USSR and the former Communist regimes of East
European states. China and North Korea have reportedly provided some
weapons.
Created: 03/26/95
Last Updated: 03/16/99
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