Analysts: Fall of Rafah Wall Boosts Hamas

Arab analysts have stated that the opening Rafah crossing has boosted the standing of Islamic resistance movement, Hamas, Gulf News reported.

Samih Shabib wrote in the pro-Fatah Al Ayyam daily that the reopening of the Rafiah terminal "will be impossible to accomplish without the participation of all parties, including Hamas." Gulf News quoted political analyst Hani Al Masri, "The PA will not be able to resume its control of the Gaza border post without Hamas's consent. Hamas's bargaining position has become stronger."

Palestinian Authority chief Mahmoud Abbas has told Israel it wants to take control over the Gaza crossings but has not explained how it could so without cooperating with Hamas.