In so many ways, Gaza and the West Bank seem to be drifting farther apart.  Recently, though, one place where Palestinians have come together is on the pitch – that is to say, the soccer field.  In fact, the Palestinian national team has emerged as “a rare point of unity for the fiercely-divided Palestinian factions.”

At the heart of the harmony around the national team may be soccer’s revitalization in Gaza. Some of the best Palestinian soccer players are from Gaza.  But until recently, the professional league there had been in dire straits. When Hamas took control in 2007, it also took control of the league, including the 16 teams sponsored by Fatah. Competitive soccer in Gaza came to a standstill.  The so-called “beautiful game” wasn’t so beautiful anymore; it was just gone.

The game, though, did not lose its popularity and months of negotiations between the two factions took place to resolve the rift.  As a result, in perhaps a “baby step toward Palestinian reconciliation,” Hamas and Fatah agreed to restore the league earlier this spring, placing the 16 disputed Fatah teams under a joint Fatah-Hamas committee, and the Gaza league finished its first full season this summer.  Not only are the fans happy, but it also sends a positive message.  Said the head of soccer in Gaza, “We know we can’t solve all of the political problems, but maybe soccer will bridge the gap.” (more…)