Hamas calls off anniversary celebrations
Hamas has denied that the cancellation of its big anniversary celebration in the Gaza Strip is the result of declining popularity or financial problems.
GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip — Hamas usually celebrates its anniversary on Dec. 14, marking its founding on that date in 1987. This year, however, the Islamic Resistance Movement decided to cancel its 26th anniversary festivities.
Ashraf Abu Zayed, head of the Hamas public action department, said in a statement to local news agencies on Nov. 29 that Hamas replaced the central festival — scheduled for Dec. 14 — with other small-scale activities in all governorates of the Gaza Strip, given the tight blockade.
