Hamas and the Arab State: A Transnational Terrorist Social Movement’s Impact on Regimes in the Middle East

Abstract

Hamas is a unique actor in Middle Eastern politics: an Islamic movement with a domestic agenda and domestic activities, Hamas is also a transnational actor capable of regional consequences. The impact of its ideology and tactics has inadvertently and indirectly risen to a regional scale. Without intention, Hamas has become a factor in the politics of many Arab states. Hamas is not directly coordinating Arab citizens or confronting Arab governments. There are no established cross-border networks or cells in other countries. Through a number of different channels, however, Hamas is able to achieve a similar level of influence. This paper lays out the various influences that Hamas has on Arab populations and their governments as well as determines the impact that those influences have on the stability of Arab regimes. Due to the contentious nature that Hamas’ ideology and violent activities present to a state system, Hamas is more often a destabilizing force for Arab governments than it is reinforcement for their rule. Arab states must be aware of Hamas’ indirect ability to influence their security.