Exploring the Key Principles of Hamas Foreign Relations

Abstract

Hamas has established political relations with a number of countries and opened representation offices in some of them. This paper explores the principles that shaped the foreign relations policy of the movement. This research is qualitative in nature, utilizing the analytical-descriptive and historical methods. Semi-structured interviews with the most notable leaders of the movement were conducted; and a set of primary and secondary historical documents, specifically those present in the movement’s archives were analyzed thoroughly. The findings have shown that Hamas is striving to accomplish the interests of the Palestinian people based on the ‘Public Interest’ principle. Politically, Hamas is also open to all countries, political parties and international organizations (excluding the occupying state of Israel) based on the premise that the ‘interaction and cooperation are the essence of human relations.’ Furthermore, Hamas constantly emphasises the independence of its decision-making, rejects dictations, does not interfere in the internal affairs of sovereign states, does not get involved into game of conflicting axes or clashes, and does not conduct armed operations outside of Palestine. To conclude, being committed to the above-mentioned principles, Hamas has been able to maintain positive relations with countries and parties.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2016.v7n3s1p207