Alan Johnson Freed by Hamas

Alan Johnson, the well respected BBC news correspondent, who was kidnapped 16 weeks ago and imprisoned in the Sabra neighbourhood of Gaza City in Palestine was released thanks to Hamas. Johnson was held by members of a much-feared family known for lawless behaviour who have a Jihadist character and are known for being ruthless.

Hamas took over Gaza by force from pro-Fatah Palestinian Authority security forces in mid-June 2007. Now with its successful intervention in the Alan Johnson affair Hamas is showing who the real boss is in Palestine.

The emergence of Hamas as a group that can establish law and order in Palestine presents a bit of a dilemma for Western governments, including the United States. Hamas is regarded as a terrorist group by the US as Hamas has not and probably never will state that it will not use force against Israel.

The role of Hamas in freeing Alan Johnson does seem to have helped its image with some governments, especially the British. Dealing with the reality of Hamas existence, strength, and popularity in Palestine is something Western governments may have to get used to.

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