Some things to think about after Ismail Haniyeh's visit to Lebanon and to the camp of Ein al Helwe. He comes at a time of great turmoil, not only in Lebanon, but in Palestinian refugee camps as well. The latter are also dealing with unrest and protests. Thread. 
2/ Hamas' show of force was predictable. The Fatah, who's mostly in control of the camps in Lebanon, through the PLO, faces accusations of corruption, clientelism, and violence. They've been losing support for years, especially after failing their popular base.
3/ The dire situation in the camps isn't a new phenomenon, it's been ongoing since the end of the civil war. Since then, Palestinian leaders didn't improve services, nor really advocate for the rights of Palestinians, and maintained a corrupted system in place.
4/ The Palestinian factions have set up a humanitarian and support structure with the only purpose of providing jobs and paying salaries instead of improving quality of life. Trump's move on the UNRWA the past few years wasn't surprising.
5/ More and more young Palestinians protest and demand changes. It is easy to talk to the youth and see thousands criticizing their leaders, the absence of control on weapons, and a system concentrating power in the hands of the traditional factions.
6/ Thousands already left and many more are planning to do so. After selling their house, and paying for a trip with a layover in South America, or Asia, they arrive in Europe using loopholes to seek asylum there. Taking risks is not a problem.
7/ Haniyeh doesn't have anything to offer. The factions are already despised on the ground. His speech, full of revolutionary quotes, is just rhetorical and a way to mobilize what is left from his troops. Reminds us of the Lebanese leaders, their parties and narratives.
8/ Haniyeh was also seen parading in Ein al Helwe with armed men and what's seems to be thousands of people. But the visit is his first in nearly 30 years, it is then normal to expect many. In addition, the camp's narrow streets give the impression of a huge crowd.
9/ About the armed men. Most factions have armed militants and some camps even have joint forces through which factions collaborate to "ensure" security. What is sure is that fear is growing following dozens of incidents involving weapons.
10/ Many have been pointing out how Haniyeh wasn't wearing a mask. I think most Lebanese and Palestinian officials proved how irresponsible and negligent they can be, whether regarding managing official files or wearing a mask. Haniyeh is just part of the group.
11/ Finally, the visit won't be welcomed by many, especially the Lebanese Christians. Parading with weapons & adopting revolutionary speeches will revive the souvenirs of the war. It also comes at a time when Patriarch Rai calls for the neutrality of the country. To be followed.
12/ For more info on the Palestinian youth, their challenges and frustrations, I wrote this article a couple of years ago with @SynapsNetwork. Here's the link: synaps.network/post/palestini…
