Fatah

Overview

Fatah, officially known as the Palestinian National Liberation Movement, is a Palestinian political party and the largest faction of the multi-party Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). The party's name is a reverse acronym of the Arabic, Harekat at-Tahrir al-Wataniyyeh al-Falastiniyyeh, meaning "Palestinian National Liberation Movement". Fatah is generally considered to have had a strong involvement in revolutionary struggle, and has maintained a number of militant groups.

A flag with a black and white pattern, a green triangle on the left side and a red triangle on the right side.

History

Fatah was founded in 1959 by members of the Palestinian diaspora - Palestinians living in Egypt, Lebanon and other Arab countries, who felt that they should form a separate entity to press for the return of their lands. The founders included Yasser Arafat, who became its leader until his death in 2004. Fatah's early ideology was a blend of revolutionary struggle and nationalism, with the goal of reclaiming their homeland.

Political Ideology

Fatah's main aim was the liberation of Palestine, including modern-day Israel, from Israeli control. From 1993, however, it has officially supported the peace process and the creation of a Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, a position that has been challenged by more radical factions within the party.

Militant Activities

Fatah has carried out numerous attacks against Israeli civilians and military targets, the most notable being the 1972 Munich Olympics massacre. However, since the signing of the Oslo Accords in 1993, Fatah's leadership has renounced violence and instead endorsed peaceful negotiations.

Internal Organization

Fatah's internal organization is divided into several bodies, the highest of which is the General Conference, which elects the Central Committee. The Central Committee is the party's executive body, and it elects the Revolutionary Council, which is the legislative body.

Political Influence

Fatah has held a prominent position in Palestinian politics since the 1960s. Despite numerous challenges, it remains one of the two major parties in the Palestinian territories, the other being Hamas.