By respecting the democratic wishes of the people, Ottawa can help Hamas evolve into a mainstream political party
by Tarek Fatah and Jehad Aliweiwi [The Toronto Star, January 30, 2006]

“In December 1991, the militant Algerian Islamic Salvation Front (FIS) surprised everyone by winning the first stage of national legislative elections.

The victory stunned the West and, before the FIS could win the crucial second round of elections, the Algerian army stepped in and, with the tacit approval of the U.S. and Europe, cancelled the elections.

Several years of savage civil war followed, in which not only tens of thousands died, but also a fresh generation of Islamic militants was born.

In attempting to curb Islamic militancy in Algeria, the actions of the United States and Europe achieved the exact opposite...”

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