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Other Names
PIJ-Shaqaqi Faction
PIJ-Shallah Faction
Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ)
Islamic Jihad of Palestine
Islamic Jihad in Palestine
Abu Ghunaym Squad of the Hizballah Bayt Al-Maqdis
Description
Originated among militant Palestinians in the
Gaza Strip during the 1970s. Committed to the
creation of an Islamic Palestinian state and the
destruction of Israel through holy war. Because
of its strong support for Israel, the United States
has been identified as an enemy of the PIJ, but
the group has not specifically conducted attacks
against US interests in the past. In July 2000,
however, publicly threatened to attack US interests
if the US Embassy is moved from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.
Also opposes moderate Arab governments that it
believes have been tainted by Western secularism.
Activities
Conducted at least three attacks against Israeli
interests in late 2000, including one to commemorate
the anniversary of former PIJ leader Fathi Shaqaqi's
murder in Malta on 26 October 1995. Conducted
suicide bombings against Israeli targets in the
West Bank, Gaza Strip, and Israel.
Strength
Unknown.
Location/Area of Operation
Primarily Israel and the occupied territories
and other parts of the Middle East, including
Jordan and Lebanon. Headquartered in Syria.
External Aid
Receives financial assistance from Iran and limited
logistic assistance from Syria.
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