The Palestinian Authority's Supreme Fatwa Council has reportedly legalized online dating; however, such sites and its users need to abide by the moral standards and Shariah's rules.
The council stated that the Internet had become an 'unavoidable' medium, and the decision is expected to open new dating channels for Muslim Palestinians.
According to ABC News, the council stated that the purpose of any interaction between two people should be marriage, adding that the conversation should be restricted to achieving this goal and should not transcend to private matters that could stir instincts and awaken desires.
Women users are also prohibited from sharing pictures and private details about themselves, and from meeting anyone without family members present.
Omar Ayad, head of the sociology and social work department at Al Najah National University in the northern West Bank said that despite the fatwa, Palestinians would stick to their customs and traditions, even though the religion has officially authorized connection between sexes, the report added.