TERRORIST
GROUP
PROFILES
MILNET
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Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine (DFLP)
From: Patterns of Global Terrorism. United States Department of State Publication 10321
Description
Marxist group that split from the PFLP in 1969. Believes Palestinian
national goals can be achieved only through revolution of the masses.
Opposes the Declaration of Principles (DOP) signed in 1993. In early 1980s,
occupied political stance midway between Arafat and the rejectionists.
Split into two factions in 1991, one pro-Arafat and another more hardline
faction headed by Nayif Hawatmah (which has suspended participation in the
PLO).
Activities
In the 1970s, carried out numerous small bombings and minor assaults and
some more spectacular operations in Israel and the occupied territories,
concentrating on Israeli targets such as the 1974 massacre in Malalot in
which 27 Israelis were killed and more than 100 wounded. Involved only in
border raids since 1988. [Continues to oppose the Israel-PLO peace agreement.]
Strength
Estimated at 500 (total for both factions).
Location/Area of Operation
Syria, Lebanon, and the Israeli occupied territories; attacks have taken
place entirely in Israel and the occupied territories.
External Aid
Receives financial and military aid from Syria and Libya.
Created: 03/26/95
Last Updated: 02/04/96
Page Maintained by George Goncalves - ggoncalves@nps.navy.mil