Hamas made a strong showing in local elections in the West Bank, the first time the Islamic militant group competed at the polls, according to preliminary elections results obtained Friday. The apparent show of support for Hamas came as leaders of its main rival in the election — the ruling Fatah movement — are pushing to resume peace talks with Israel. Hamas is pledged to Israel’s destruction and opposes negotiations. Elections for local councils were held in 26 communities on Thursday, with some 150,000 eligible voters choosing from among more than 800 candidates. Sixteen percent of the 360 local council seats were reserved for women. The vote was the first in municipalities since 1976. Full Story
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