Concerns That Hamas Success In Palestinian Elections Will Bring Sharia Restrictions

In the Palestinian Authority as Hamas appears to be gaining strength in Wednesday's Parliamentary elections, Palestinian women fear that Hamas will press for the imposition of Islamic family law and dress codes. The Middle East Times reports today from Gaza City that women like Naila Ayesh, director of the Women's Affairs Center fear that a Hamas-dominated Parliament will permit polygamy and permit discrimination against women in divorce and custody proceedings. Others, like male hairdresser Hossam Abu Mohammed fear that males working for women will be banned. Five years ago, Hamas supporters burned down Gaza's movie theater, furious that it was too frivolous and was incompatible with Islamic mores.