Hamas has taken control of the Gaza Strip, and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has declared a state of emergency.

What impact do these developments have on life in the region? Charles Levinson of London's The Daily Telegraph says Friday has been relatively quiet. He says there are concerns the area could become more conservative, but others hope law and order will be restored after months of anarchy. Palestinians are glad the fighting has stopped and hope calm returns.

Levinson talks to Madeleine Brand.

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