Hamas bans women from using motorcycles

"Hamas's recent decision to ban women from using motorcycles has sparked controversy in Gazan society.

Opponents of the move say it violates the basic rights of poor and middle-class Gazans, who depend on motorbikes for transport.

On Monday, Hamas, which has ruled the tiny coastal strip for the past decade, announced the ban on women riding or being carried on motorcycles.

The Hamas Interior Ministry in Gaza says law enforcement authorities will force women on motorbikes to dismount, and impose penalties against them. If the woman is a pillion rider, the driver will also be held responsible.

The ministry said: 'It is time for Gazan society to put an end to the phenomenon of women using motorcycles. This does not suit our society socially or morally. Nor does it fit with Muslim rules and regulations, as women's use of motorcycles can easily disclose their sensitive parts.'..."