Breaking News in Palestine: Fatah Exits Stage Left For Hamas To Take Center

The Palestinian prime minister, Ahmed Qureia, and cabinet today resigned following what appears to be a dramatic election win for Hamas. Although results are not due until this evening, a senior official for Fatah - the formerly dominant force in Palestinian politics - conceded that the party had lost its majority in parliament. Former PM Qureia, said the Palestinian president, Mahmoud Abbas, would have to ask Hamas to form the next government.

"This is the choice of the people. It should be respected," Mr Qureia said as he announced his resignation.

As events unfold, please reference [aside from the previous blog entry "Sesame Street Move Over!" on Hamas's recent PR overhaul] the following articles:
Palestinian PM and Cabinet Resign from the Guardian Unlimited, Palestinian PM Quits After Poll, Hamas Heading for Poll Victory, Who are Hamas?, and New Hamas? On the Campaign Trail with Hamas from BBC World News.