Tens of thousands of supporters of Fatah rallied in the Gaza Strip on Sunday amid growing tensions with rival Hamas movement. "We do not want a civil war and we reject civil war. But I tell you that our blood is not an open target for anyone," senior aide to President Abbas, Tayeb Abdel-Rahim said in a speech on behalf of his boss.
According to Reuters, Abdel-Rahim said Palestinians should focus their battle on Israel, not fight each other. "Our differences must remain with the occupation, which is bulldozing our land and killing our people," he said.
The rally in Gaza's main stadium - al Yarmuk - was held to observe the 42nd anniversary of Fatah movement.
Fatah leader and former security chief Mohammad Dahlan taunted Hamas during a speech, telling bodyguards to move away. "I need no one ... let Hamas shoot me," Dahlan said. "If a Fatah man is attacked, we will respond. Their leaders will be wrong to think they are far from the reach of our hands." After the rally, it was reported that Dahlan has broken his ribs.
