Which statement correctly compares and contrasts the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and Hamas?
The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and Hamas are both Palestinian political organizations, but they have different ideologies and methods.
The PLO is a secular nationalist organization that aims to establish a Palestinian state in the territory of Israel, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip. It was founded in 1964 and has been recognized by the international community as the representative of the Palestinian people. The PLO has pursued diplomatic and political avenues to achieve Palestinian statehood, including negotiating with Israel and seeking recognition from international bodies.
Hamas, on the other hand, is an Islamist organization founded in 1987 with the goal of establishing an Islamic state in all of historic Palestine, including what is now Israel. Hamas does not recognize the state of Israel and has engaged in armed resistance, including suicide bombings and rocket attacks, as a means of fighting against Israeli occupation. Hamas has also provided social services and carried out charitable work in Palestinian communities, gaining support through its grassroots approach.
In summary, the PLO is a secular nationalist organization that seeks Palestinian statehood through diplomatic means, while Hamas is an Islamist organization that advocates for armed resistance and the establishment of an Islamic state in all of historic Palestine.