Gunfire Interrupts Hamas Victory Rally

30 January 2005 -- Palestinian officials say 20 people were injured yesterday when a political rally held by the Hamas militant group was interrupted by gunfire from supporters of the rival Fatah faction.

The shootout took place at the Maghazi refugee camp in central Gaza, where Hamas supporters were celebrating the group's victory in 27 January municipal elections.

Maghazi was one of the few districts won by Fatah, the party of new Palestinian leader Mahmud Abbas. A Fatah member opened fire after several hundred Hamas supporters marched on the district, sparking a brawl in which people were injured by guns, knives, and clubs.

It was the first incidence of violence since Abbas' election early this month.

(AP)