Meaning: The quote by Warren Christopher, a prominent American statesman, reflects on the surprising level of voter turnout in an election despite the efforts of Hamas to sabotage it. To provide context, it is important to understand the political landscape in which this statement was made. Warren Christopher was the Secretary of State under President Bill Clinton and was closely involved in the peace negotiations between Israel and Palestine. The quote likely refers to the Palestinian elections in the late 1990s or early 2000s, a period marked by significant political tension and conflict in the region.

In the quote, Christopher highlights the contradiction between Hamas' call for a boycott of the election and the high voter turnout, particularly in areas where Hamas was expected to have significant influence. This unexpected level of participation in the democratic process is described as "quite incredible," prompting reflection on the power of the people to assert their will despite attempts to disrupt the electoral process.

The specific reference to Hamas as "the opponents of Arafat, the opponents of peace" underscores the complex and contentious dynamics within Palestinian politics at the time. Yasser Arafat, the longtime leader of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), was a central figure in the efforts to negotiate peace with Israel. However, Hamas, a militant Islamist organization, vehemently opposed the peace process and sought to undermine any attempts at reconciliation between Palestine and Israel.

Hamas' call for a boycott of the election reflects its broader rejection of the political framework established by the Oslo Accords, which aimed to establish a framework for peace between Israel and Palestine. By urging Palestinians to abstain from participating in the electoral process, Hamas sought to delegitimize the authority of the Palestinian Authority (PA) and undermine the prospects for a negotiated settlement with Israel.

Despite these efforts, the significant voter turnout challenged the narrative of widespread support for Hamas' opposition to the election. The fact that 85 percent of eligible voters turned out to cast their ballots, particularly in areas perceived as strongholds of Hamas, defied expectations and raised questions about the true level of popular support for the organization's hardline stance.

Warren Christopher's characterization of this turnout as "incredible" suggests a recognition of the resilience and determination of the Palestinian people to engage in the political process, even in the face of significant challenges and obstacles. It also serves as a testament to the enduring commitment to democratic principles and the exercise of political agency, despite the tumultuous and volatile environment in which the election took place.

In conclusion, Warren Christopher's quote captures a pivotal moment in the complex political landscape of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, where the intersection of competing ideologies, electoral dynamics, and popular engagement defied conventional expectations. The high voter turnout in the face of Hamas' boycott call serves as a testament to the resilience of democratic values and the capacity of individuals to assert their agency in shaping the course of their political future.