31 jan 2013
Election Commission to begin voter registration in Gaza
The Palestinian elections commission declared the start of voter registration in Gaza on February 11. Dr. Sami Abu Zuhri, a spokesman for Hamas movement, said in a statement on Wednesday, after a meeting between the Palestinian factions and the election commission, that the committee has informed the factions that it will update the electoral register from February 11 till February 19 in Gaza and the West Bank.
"We have agreed to start operations in the Gaza Strip and we will begin in Gaza and the West Bank," Central Elections Commission chief Hanna Nasser said after meeting Prime Minister Ismail Haniya, noting that there will be 254 centers to update voter rolls in the Gaza Strip.
We were able to resolve 99% of problems relating to voter registration, although the update process will begin in a few days, he added.
Nasser called on Hamas and Fatah movement to provide positive atmosphere till the end of the voter registration in Gaza.
He expressed his hope that the positive atmosphere will not be spoiled by media statements between Hamas and Fatah movements, noting that "no matter what happens, the Commission must continue its work."
He stressed the need to allow all citizens to register their names and not to put pressure on anyone to prevent him/her from registering.
"We have agreed to start operations in the Gaza Strip and we will begin in Gaza and the West Bank," Central Elections Commission chief Hanna Nasser said after meeting Prime Minister Ismail Haniya, noting that there will be 254 centers to update voter rolls in the Gaza Strip.
We were able to resolve 99% of problems relating to voter registration, although the update process will begin in a few days, he added.
Nasser called on Hamas and Fatah movement to provide positive atmosphere till the end of the voter registration in Gaza.
He expressed his hope that the positive atmosphere will not be spoiled by media statements between Hamas and Fatah movements, noting that "no matter what happens, the Commission must continue its work."
He stressed the need to allow all citizens to register their names and not to put pressure on anyone to prevent him/her from registering.
Hamas negates news about its acceptance of two-state solution
The Hamas Movement categorically denied some news reports claiming that head of its political bureau Khaled Mashaal had asked the Jordanian monarch to tell the US administration that Hamas accepts the two-state solution with Israel. "We, in Hamas, affirm that such allegations are untrue," its information office stated in a press release.
It added that Mashaal did not table at all during his meeting last Monday with king Abdullah in Amman the issue of the two-state solution.
According to the press release, Mashaal discussed with the Jordanian king the Palestinian situation in general as well as the national reconciliation and the events in the region.
Mashaal also reiterated his Movement's keenness on the Palestinian unity and its refusal of all plans about the alternative homeland.
It added that Mashaal did not table at all during his meeting last Monday with king Abdullah in Amman the issue of the two-state solution.
According to the press release, Mashaal discussed with the Jordanian king the Palestinian situation in general as well as the national reconciliation and the events in the region.
Mashaal also reiterated his Movement's keenness on the Palestinian unity and its refusal of all plans about the alternative homeland.
30 jan 2013
Election Committee sets date to update electoral register before meeting Haniya
Palestinian government expressed its surprise as the Central Election Committee has announced the dates for the start of updating the electoral register before meeting Prime Minister Ismail Haniya. The Election Committee has announced yesterday evening from Ramallah that updating the electoral register in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip will take place between the 9th and the 16th of next February, before seeing the results of its meeting with Gaza Premier Ismail Haniya that is scheduled to be held today in Gaza.
The meeting was called for by the Prime Minister to discuss with the Election Committee the resumption of its work and to listen to their feedback on their performance in the West Bank.
Taher Nunu, the government spokesman, expressed in a statement on Wednesday morning his fear that the committee's announcement will create a negative atmosphere in its meeting with Haniya.
The meeting was called for by the Prime Minister to discuss with the Election Committee the resumption of its work and to listen to their feedback on their performance in the West Bank.
Taher Nunu, the government spokesman, expressed in a statement on Wednesday morning his fear that the committee's announcement will create a negative atmosphere in its meeting with Haniya.
Palestinian support campaign for MP David Ward
Zaher Al-Berawi, Spokesman for the Palestinian Forum in Britain (PFB) expressed the Palestinian community's solidarity with the British MP David Ward, who is under attack from the Zionist lobby media in Britain for his comments regarding Israeli treatment of Palestinian people. Al-Berawi stated that this campaign against MP David came within the policy of gagging and confiscation of freedom of opinion and expression in Britain, especially if it is related to exposing the Israeli practices against the Palestinians in the occupied territories.
Al-Berawi stated that MP David Ward was subjected to fierce attack following his criticism of the atrocious treatment of Palestinian people by the Israelis, adding that such practices should not happen in a country that claims to be democratic.
He stressed that such practices will not succeed to cover the true face of the Israeli apartheid system in Palestine.
Al-Berawi praised MP David's courageous position despite the Zionist lobby pressures and campaigns, appreciating the Palestine supporters in the British Parliament and society for their efforts in defending Palestinian rights.
The spokesman for PFB called on the Arab and Muslim communities in the city Bradford and neighboring towns to support the MP through every possible means.
David Ward, MP for Bradford East, wrote on his own website, ahead of Holocaust Memorial Day on Sunday, that he was "saddened that they ‘could within a few years of liberation from the death camps be inflicting atrocities on Palestinians…on a daily basis."
"Having visited Auschwitz twice, once with my family and once with local schools, I am saddened that the Jews, who suffered unbelievable levels of persecution during the Holocaust, could within a few years of liberation from the death camps be inflicting atrocities on Palestinians in the new State of Israel and continue to do so on a daily basis in the West Bank and Gaza," MP Ward wrote.
David's statement have raised huge criticism within the Zionist lobby in Britain and even within his political party, leading him to explain that he did not mean all the Jews.
"I apologize for my unintended mistake, I understand, of course, the sensitivity of this issue especially with Holocaust Memorial Day," he said.
He explained that his criticism was "against the practices in the Palestinian territories since 1948 that were committed by the State of Israel."
He added that the Zionist lobby's campaign will not stop him from continuing to support the Palestinian people as long as Israel continues to practice oppression against them.
Al-Berawi stated that MP David Ward was subjected to fierce attack following his criticism of the atrocious treatment of Palestinian people by the Israelis, adding that such practices should not happen in a country that claims to be democratic.
He stressed that such practices will not succeed to cover the true face of the Israeli apartheid system in Palestine.
Al-Berawi praised MP David's courageous position despite the Zionist lobby pressures and campaigns, appreciating the Palestine supporters in the British Parliament and society for their efforts in defending Palestinian rights.
The spokesman for PFB called on the Arab and Muslim communities in the city Bradford and neighboring towns to support the MP through every possible means.
David Ward, MP for Bradford East, wrote on his own website, ahead of Holocaust Memorial Day on Sunday, that he was "saddened that they ‘could within a few years of liberation from the death camps be inflicting atrocities on Palestinians…on a daily basis."
"Having visited Auschwitz twice, once with my family and once with local schools, I am saddened that the Jews, who suffered unbelievable levels of persecution during the Holocaust, could within a few years of liberation from the death camps be inflicting atrocities on Palestinians in the new State of Israel and continue to do so on a daily basis in the West Bank and Gaza," MP Ward wrote.
David's statement have raised huge criticism within the Zionist lobby in Britain and even within his political party, leading him to explain that he did not mean all the Jews.
"I apologize for my unintended mistake, I understand, of course, the sensitivity of this issue especially with Holocaust Memorial Day," he said.
He explained that his criticism was "against the practices in the Palestinian territories since 1948 that were committed by the State of Israel."
He added that the Zionist lobby's campaign will not stop him from continuing to support the Palestinian people as long as Israel continues to practice oppression against them.
Sheikh Raed Salah wins the International King Faisal Award for services to Islam
The International King Faisal Awarding Body declared that the leader of the Islamic Movement in the occupied territories of 1948, Sheikh Raed Salah, has won the International King Faisal Award for services to Islam. "Sheikh Salah won the award for being one of the most prominent personalities in the formation of the Islamic Movement in the Palestinians territories occupied in 1948, the President of the al-Aqsa Foundation for Islamic Sanctuaries, and the first to have exposed the clandestine tunnel digging taking place under the al-Aqsa Mosque," the body said.
It is scheduled that Sheikh Salah will be handed the prize in a large official ceremony under the auspices of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
For its part, the Palestinian Trade Union Coalition congratulated Sheikh Salah for his efforts in the service of Islam and Palestinian rights, especially the defense of Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa Mosque.
The coalition stressed Sheikh Raed Salah's prominent role in revealing the Israeli Judaization schemes in occupied Jerusalem, and in exposing the Israeli crimes and violations against al-Aqsa mosque, where he was subjected to several arrests, assassination attempts and threats.
It is scheduled that Sheikh Salah will be handed the prize in a large official ceremony under the auspices of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
For its part, the Palestinian Trade Union Coalition congratulated Sheikh Salah for his efforts in the service of Islam and Palestinian rights, especially the defense of Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa Mosque.
The coalition stressed Sheikh Raed Salah's prominent role in revealing the Israeli Judaization schemes in occupied Jerusalem, and in exposing the Israeli crimes and violations against al-Aqsa mosque, where he was subjected to several arrests, assassination attempts and threats.
Haneyya receives solidarity delegations from Tunisia and Yemen
Palestinian premier Ismail Haneyya received in the Gaza Strip solidarity delegations from Tunisia and Yemen and hailed their countries for their role in supporting the Palestinian cause. During his meeting with members of the delegation, Haneyya praised the Tunisian people for revolting against their tyrannical regime and restoring their ties with the Palestinian people.
"The spark of the Arab Spring revolution has extended from Tunisia to many Arab countries to liberate them from injustice. The Tunisian people was able to get out from beneath the rubble to announce that the years of helplessness and loss of identity did not succeed in distracting their minds, shattering their dignity and removing Palestine from their hearts," the premier highlighted.
He also saluted the Yemeni people for their ongoing support for Palestine throughout the history and said the Palestinian people appreciate that.
Meanwhile, first deputy speaker of the Palestinian legislative council Ahmed Bahr received on Tuesday members of the Tunisian aid convoy Basha'er Al-Nasr 2.
The delegation, which is comprised of surgeons, jurists and journalists, came to Gaza to deliver humanitarian aid and express solidarity with its besieged people.
Bahr, in turn, welcomed the delegation and briefed them on the living conditions of Gaza people following the last war and the crimes that had been committed by Israel.
"The spark of the Arab Spring revolution has extended from Tunisia to many Arab countries to liberate them from injustice. The Tunisian people was able to get out from beneath the rubble to announce that the years of helplessness and loss of identity did not succeed in distracting their minds, shattering their dignity and removing Palestine from their hearts," the premier highlighted.
He also saluted the Yemeni people for their ongoing support for Palestine throughout the history and said the Palestinian people appreciate that.
Meanwhile, first deputy speaker of the Palestinian legislative council Ahmed Bahr received on Tuesday members of the Tunisian aid convoy Basha'er Al-Nasr 2.
The delegation, which is comprised of surgeons, jurists and journalists, came to Gaza to deliver humanitarian aid and express solidarity with its besieged people.
Bahr, in turn, welcomed the delegation and briefed them on the living conditions of Gaza people following the last war and the crimes that had been committed by Israel.
29 jan 2013
Bardawil: Egyptian media outlets launching systematic campaign against Hamas
Dr. Salah Al-Bardawil, a Hamas leader, has said that a number of Egyptian media outlets were involved in a concentrated incitement campaign against Hamas supported by the “Zionist entity”. Bardawil told the PIC on Tuesday that huge funds are being channeled for those outlets to smear Hamas and accuse the movement with involvement in the internal Egyptian incidents.
He stressed his movement’s policy of not interfering in any country’s internal affairs and any other reports in this regard are mere fabrication aimed at serving certain political ends.
Hamas is keen on maintaining mutual relations based on respect with all except Israel, Bardawil said, adding that Hamas is keen on Egypt’s security and considers it part of Palestine’s security.
The Hamas leader affirmed that whoever spreads such rumors was definitely connected to the “Zionist propaganda machine” that always seeks to drive a wedge between Hamas and the Egyptian people.
For his part, Hamas spokesman Fawzi Barhoum said on his Facebook page on Tuesday that the media campaign was a “desperate attempt to smear Hamas”.
He said that his movement stands at equal footing with all Egyptian political parties, adding that enemies to Egypt and Hamas are the only parties benefitting from such a campaign.
A number of Egyptian media outlets recently claimed that thousands of Hamas fighters had entered Egypt through Gaza tunnels to support president Mohammed Morsi in face of his political opponents.
He stressed his movement’s policy of not interfering in any country’s internal affairs and any other reports in this regard are mere fabrication aimed at serving certain political ends.
Hamas is keen on maintaining mutual relations based on respect with all except Israel, Bardawil said, adding that Hamas is keen on Egypt’s security and considers it part of Palestine’s security.
The Hamas leader affirmed that whoever spreads such rumors was definitely connected to the “Zionist propaganda machine” that always seeks to drive a wedge between Hamas and the Egyptian people.
For his part, Hamas spokesman Fawzi Barhoum said on his Facebook page on Tuesday that the media campaign was a “desperate attempt to smear Hamas”.
He said that his movement stands at equal footing with all Egyptian political parties, adding that enemies to Egypt and Hamas are the only parties benefitting from such a campaign.
A number of Egyptian media outlets recently claimed that thousands of Hamas fighters had entered Egypt through Gaza tunnels to support president Mohammed Morsi in face of his political opponents.
IPU delegation received at PLC headquarters in Gaza
A delegation of the inter-parliamentary union led by its secretary-general Anders Johnson was received at the Palestinian legislative council’s headquarters in Gaza city. Dr. Ahmed Bahar, deputy PLC speaker, and other MPs received the delegation on Monday.
Bahar briefed the delegates on latest developments in the Palestinian arena topped by the Israeli siege on Gaza, escalation in attacks on Palestinian land, Judaization of Jerusalem, and the settlement drive in the West Bank.
Bahar urged the international delegates to exert more pressures on Israel to release the detained Palestinian MPs.
Bahar briefed the delegates on latest developments in the Palestinian arena topped by the Israeli siege on Gaza, escalation in attacks on Palestinian land, Judaization of Jerusalem, and the settlement drive in the West Bank.
Bahar urged the international delegates to exert more pressures on Israel to release the detained Palestinian MPs.
Thousands demonstrate in Ramallah demanding resignation of Fayyad
Thousands of Palestinian civil servants demonstrated in front of the council of ministers in Ramallah on Monday demanding resignation of premier Salam Fayyad. The demonstrators were protesting the intermittent disbursement of their salaries, saying that none should ask them to report to work regularly as long as their salaries are not being paid regularly.
Bassam Zakarna, the head of the civil servants union, told the rally that Fayyad should go after he promised that by 2013 all state institutions would be ready for the declaration of the state of Palestine but now 2013 brings with it only a severe financial crisis.
He said that Fayyad and the PA were not transparent regarding their finances, adding that Fayyad acquired a half a million dollar bulletproof car on Monday: “How can the government procure such a car at such a time of financial crisis”.
Zakarne advised the cabinet ministers to resign because of their lavish expenditure from money they got through illegitimate means and from gifts.
Bassam Zakarna, the head of the civil servants union, told the rally that Fayyad should go after he promised that by 2013 all state institutions would be ready for the declaration of the state of Palestine but now 2013 brings with it only a severe financial crisis.
He said that Fayyad and the PA were not transparent regarding their finances, adding that Fayyad acquired a half a million dollar bulletproof car on Monday: “How can the government procure such a car at such a time of financial crisis”.
Zakarne advised the cabinet ministers to resign because of their lavish expenditure from money they got through illegitimate means and from gifts.
Haneyya invites Lebanese premier to visit Gaza
Palestinian minister of religious affairs Ismail Radwan handed on Monday a letter from premier Ismail Haneyya to his Lebanese counterpart Najib Mikati, in which he invited him to visit the Gaza Strip. Premier Haneyya also urged his counterpart to take measures to improve the living conditions of the Palestinian refugees in Lebanon.
This came during a meeting between minister Radwan and the Lebanese premier at the cabinet headquarters in Beirut.
Radwan stated in a press release that he discussed with Mikati the conditions of the Palestinian refugees in Lebanon and stressed the need for alleviating the suffering of the refugees and the evacuees from the camps in Syria.
Radawan also asked Mikati to work on ending the security situation in Nahr Al-Bared refugee camp and lift the restrictions imposed on its residents.
"We have emphasized that the right of return is a sacred right and that the presence of Palestinians in Lebanon and other host countries is temporary until their return to their homes in Palestine," the minister stated.
He also noted that he called on Mikati to pressure the UNRWA to assume its responsibilities towards the Palestinians in Lebanon and to urge the donor countries to be convened in Kuwait this month to provide urgent assistance to the refugees.
This came during a meeting between minister Radwan and the Lebanese premier at the cabinet headquarters in Beirut.
Radwan stated in a press release that he discussed with Mikati the conditions of the Palestinian refugees in Lebanon and stressed the need for alleviating the suffering of the refugees and the evacuees from the camps in Syria.
Radawan also asked Mikati to work on ending the security situation in Nahr Al-Bared refugee camp and lift the restrictions imposed on its residents.
"We have emphasized that the right of return is a sacred right and that the presence of Palestinians in Lebanon and other host countries is temporary until their return to their homes in Palestine," the minister stated.
He also noted that he called on Mikati to pressure the UNRWA to assume its responsibilities towards the Palestinians in Lebanon and to urge the donor countries to be convened in Kuwait this month to provide urgent assistance to the refugees.
28 jan 2013
Mishaal discusses Palestinian developments with Jordanian monarch
Political bureau chairman of Hamas Khaled Mishaal discussed in Amman on Monday with Jordanian monarch King Abdullah II latest Palestinian developments. King Abdullah II, said official Jordanian sources, affirmed his backing for Palestinian reconciliation efforts.
The monarch told Mishaal, and the accompanying delegation, that the international recognition of Palestine as a non-member observer state at the UN was a key step toward restoring the Palestinian people’s rights topped by the right to an independent state.
The same sources quoted Mishaal as appreciating Jordanian support for the Palestinian people in various spheres, mentioning in particular the Jordanian field hospital in Gaza and the patronage of Jerusalem affairs.
Mishaal expressed his movement’s rejection of all projects aimed at finding an alternative homeland for the Palestinians.
The Hamas leader told reporters after the meeting that Hamas always likes to hold consultations with the Jordanian leadership on various issues, pointing to a high degree of understanding between the two parties.
He said that the main topic of discussion was the Palestine cause in light of the American and Israeli elections and the prevailing stalemate in the Middle East region in general.
Mishaal said that reconciliation was also on agenda of the talks, noting that the Egyptian president had strongly supported acceleration of that issue.
He said that there should be no discussion of a Palestinian-Jordanian confederation or any other similar relationship until after the establishment of a Palestinian state.
The monarch told Mishaal, and the accompanying delegation, that the international recognition of Palestine as a non-member observer state at the UN was a key step toward restoring the Palestinian people’s rights topped by the right to an independent state.
The same sources quoted Mishaal as appreciating Jordanian support for the Palestinian people in various spheres, mentioning in particular the Jordanian field hospital in Gaza and the patronage of Jerusalem affairs.
Mishaal expressed his movement’s rejection of all projects aimed at finding an alternative homeland for the Palestinians.
The Hamas leader told reporters after the meeting that Hamas always likes to hold consultations with the Jordanian leadership on various issues, pointing to a high degree of understanding between the two parties.
He said that the main topic of discussion was the Palestine cause in light of the American and Israeli elections and the prevailing stalemate in the Middle East region in general.
Mishaal said that reconciliation was also on agenda of the talks, noting that the Egyptian president had strongly supported acceleration of that issue.
He said that there should be no discussion of a Palestinian-Jordanian confederation or any other similar relationship until after the establishment of a Palestinian state.
27 jan 2013
Mishaal arrives in Jordan on an official visit
Khaled Mishaal, the political bureau chairman of Hamas, arrived in Amman on Sunday on an official few days visit to Jordan, political bureau member of Hamas Ezzet Al-Resheq said. Resheq did not divulge more details about the visit; however, sources said that Mishaal is expected to meet the Jordanian monarch along with a number of officials.
Mishaal visited Jordan in 2012 on more than one occasion after relations between Jordan and Hamas progressed into a new stage of political contacts after years of merely security contacts.
Meanwhile, an official Qatari source said that Mishaal reached the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani over the phone on Monday.
The source said that a review of developments in the Palestinian arena was made during the telephone conversation.
Mishaal visited Jordan in 2012 on more than one occasion after relations between Jordan and Hamas progressed into a new stage of political contacts after years of merely security contacts.
Meanwhile, an official Qatari source said that Mishaal reached the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani over the phone on Monday.
The source said that a review of developments in the Palestinian arena was made during the telephone conversation.
Hamas renews rejection of two-state solution
Hamas movement renewed on Sunday its rejection of the two-state solution, affirming its refusal to recognize the “Zionist entity”. Hamas said in a press release that its acceptance of establishing a Palestinian state on 1967 land did not mean forsaking historical Palestine or recognizing legitimacy of the occupation on the remaining land of Palestine.
The movement expressed dismay at statements of PA chief Mahmoud Abbas claiming that the Palestinian factions had accepted the two-state solution and popular resistance.
It explained that accepting a Palestinian land on 1967 land was meant as part of achieving national consensus on a joint program.
Hamas said that it backed all kinds of resistance against occupation including popular and armed resistance, which proved its effectiveness in defeating occupation, regaining rights, and establishing the independent Palestinian state on national soil with Jerusalem as its capital.
The movement expressed dismay at statements of PA chief Mahmoud Abbas claiming that the Palestinian factions had accepted the two-state solution and popular resistance.
It explained that accepting a Palestinian land on 1967 land was meant as part of achieving national consensus on a joint program.
Hamas said that it backed all kinds of resistance against occupation including popular and armed resistance, which proved its effectiveness in defeating occupation, regaining rights, and establishing the independent Palestinian state on national soil with Jerusalem as its capital.
Gaza to participate in Gulfood next month
Gaza Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) is prepairing to attend the Gulfood Exhibition 2013, February 25-28 at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre in the United Arab Emirates. GCCI is going to be represented in the exhibition by a delegation of importers and businessmen.
Gulfood is considered the world’s biggest annual trade exhibition for the food and hospitality industry. More than 4,200 companies from the Arab world and other countries will be represented including the United States, Russia, France, India, Switzerland, Australia, Brazil, South Africa, Turkey, Germany and many others.
Maher Al-Taba', GCCI public-relations manager, considered the visit as a good chance to get acquainted with innovations in the Arab and international markets and make contact with thousands of companies in the food field.
The visit came within the GCCI policy aimed at acquainting importers and businessmen with the latest technology and innovation in the food field, and to meet with their counterparts of businessmen from various countries around the world, he added.
He said a number of similar trips to food expos are scheduled during 2013.
Gulfood is considered the world’s biggest annual trade exhibition for the food and hospitality industry. More than 4,200 companies from the Arab world and other countries will be represented including the United States, Russia, France, India, Switzerland, Australia, Brazil, South Africa, Turkey, Germany and many others.
Maher Al-Taba', GCCI public-relations manager, considered the visit as a good chance to get acquainted with innovations in the Arab and international markets and make contact with thousands of companies in the food field.
The visit came within the GCCI policy aimed at acquainting importers and businessmen with the latest technology and innovation in the food field, and to meet with their counterparts of businessmen from various countries around the world, he added.
He said a number of similar trips to food expos are scheduled during 2013.
Abbas: Unity government will be transitional
PA chief Mahmoud Abbas said that the next Palestinian unity government would be transitional and would operate for only three months. He told satellite TV Al-Mayadeen that the central elections committee would start working by early February.
He said that as soon as the committee completes its work he would announce a date for general and presidential elections and would go ahead in forming the government and preparing for the elections.
Abbas refused to fix a date for visiting Gaza Strip, adding that he would go there soon. He also stressed that he would not nominate himself for the next presidential elections.
He said that as soon as the committee completes its work he would announce a date for general and presidential elections and would go ahead in forming the government and preparing for the elections.
Abbas refused to fix a date for visiting Gaza Strip, adding that he would go there soon. He also stressed that he would not nominate himself for the next presidential elections.
1 million shekels seized in Hebron armed robbery
Masked gunmen ambushed a car transferring Palestinian company funds in the southern West Bank city of Hebron on Sunday morning, security officials said.
The vehicle, belonging to Palestinian trading group Unipal, was headed to the bank to deposit money when it was ambushed in the Ras al-Jura neighborhood.
The gunmen chased the Unipal car before opening fire, shattering the windshields and bursting tires.
They forced the driver to hand over one million shekels ($270, 000) and fled the scene, the security officials said.
Palestinian forces have identified the vehicle and are tracking the suspects, they said.
The vehicle, belonging to Palestinian trading group Unipal, was headed to the bank to deposit money when it was ambushed in the Ras al-Jura neighborhood.
The gunmen chased the Unipal car before opening fire, shattering the windshields and bursting tires.
They forced the driver to hand over one million shekels ($270, 000) and fled the scene, the security officials said.
Palestinian forces have identified the vehicle and are tracking the suspects, they said.
26 jan 2013
Central Elections Commission to visit Gaza next week
The Central Elections Commission will visit Gaza on Wednesday to start updating the electoral roll in preparation for a vote, a statement said.
"This visit comes following a meeting on Thursday evening between President Mahmoud Abbas, CEC chief Hanna Nasser and secretary general Rami Hamdallah," a statement from the electoral body said.
On Thursday, Gaza Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh phoned CEC chief Nasser and invited him to bring a delegation to Gaza to discuss updating electoral registration.
The CEC delegation will consist of Hanna Nasser, Rami Hamdallah, executive officer Hisham Khalil, and deputy executive director Ashraf Shuaibi, together with several prominent judges.
Hamas chief Khalid Mashaal and Fatah leader President Mahmoud Abbas met recently in Cairo and agreed to set a timetable to implement the May 2011 reconciliation deal to form a unity government that will oversee elections.
The party leaders agreed that the CEC would resume work updating the voter registry in Gaza by the end of January.
The electoral roll has not been updated in Gaza since the last local elections were held in January 2005.
In July 2012, Hamas suspended the CEC's work a day before it was due to begin registering voters in Gaza, citing the continued arrest of Hamas members in the West Bank and its questions over the commission's impartiality.
"This visit comes following a meeting on Thursday evening between President Mahmoud Abbas, CEC chief Hanna Nasser and secretary general Rami Hamdallah," a statement from the electoral body said.
On Thursday, Gaza Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh phoned CEC chief Nasser and invited him to bring a delegation to Gaza to discuss updating electoral registration.
The CEC delegation will consist of Hanna Nasser, Rami Hamdallah, executive officer Hisham Khalil, and deputy executive director Ashraf Shuaibi, together with several prominent judges.
Hamas chief Khalid Mashaal and Fatah leader President Mahmoud Abbas met recently in Cairo and agreed to set a timetable to implement the May 2011 reconciliation deal to form a unity government that will oversee elections.
The party leaders agreed that the CEC would resume work updating the voter registry in Gaza by the end of January.
The electoral roll has not been updated in Gaza since the last local elections were held in January 2005.
In July 2012, Hamas suspended the CEC's work a day before it was due to begin registering voters in Gaza, citing the continued arrest of Hamas members in the West Bank and its questions over the commission's impartiality.
25 jan 2013
Paralyzed By Israeli Missile, Child Faces Israeli Legal System
The Israeli Supreme Court delayed, Thursday, deliberation in an appeal filed on behalf of a Palestinian child from Gaza who was paralyzed by an Israeli missile that also killed several family members in Gaza.
Maria Aamen is now 11, but when she was only three years old, an Israeli missile struck a civilian vehicle in Gaza leading to the death of her mother, grandmother and her 7-year old brother.
Maria did not die in the attack but was seriously injured when the explosion threw her body out of the car causing Quadriplegia; seven Palestinians were injured in the attack.
Maria now lives in Um Al-Fahem, north of the country, receiving medical attention at a specialized Israeli medical center.
Following her serious injury, the Israeli Supreme Court made a rare decision in favor of Maria allowing her to receive the needed medical treatment.
But the Israeli Defense Ministry did not want to pay the expenses for Maria’s treatment, and in 2007, Israeli Defense Minister, Ehud Barak, decided to stop the funding for her treatment.
Since then, the family of Maria has been in legal battles with Israel, trying to ensure continued treatment in Israeli medical centers.
Defense Attorney, Adi Lustigman, stated that the Supreme Court decided to delay the deliberations until next week in order to study Maria’s medical file.
Lustigman presented the court with a detailed medical report outlining the health condition of the child, and informing the court that Maria constantly needs respirators, thorough medical attention, and is always dependent on her power chair.
Maria told the Bokra News Agency that she wants her “old life back”, and that she wants to be like other children, without her power chair, and without all of those machines.
“I want to live like other children do, I want to live without a power chair, without respirators”, she said, “As a child, I was robbed of my basic rights to live in peace, the Israeli missile killed my dear mother, my brother, my grandmother, and my uncle, and left me in this condition”.
“Today am fighting for my life in this court, trying to convince Israel to continue to pay for my much needed medical expenses”, Maria added, “Am still alive because of the extensive medical attention am receiving here, and my respirator, am moving around on my power chair, I can’t move any part of my body, I can only move my head”.
Maria Aamen is now 11, but when she was only three years old, an Israeli missile struck a civilian vehicle in Gaza leading to the death of her mother, grandmother and her 7-year old brother.
Maria did not die in the attack but was seriously injured when the explosion threw her body out of the car causing Quadriplegia; seven Palestinians were injured in the attack.
Maria now lives in Um Al-Fahem, north of the country, receiving medical attention at a specialized Israeli medical center.
Following her serious injury, the Israeli Supreme Court made a rare decision in favor of Maria allowing her to receive the needed medical treatment.
But the Israeli Defense Ministry did not want to pay the expenses for Maria’s treatment, and in 2007, Israeli Defense Minister, Ehud Barak, decided to stop the funding for her treatment.
Since then, the family of Maria has been in legal battles with Israel, trying to ensure continued treatment in Israeli medical centers.
Defense Attorney, Adi Lustigman, stated that the Supreme Court decided to delay the deliberations until next week in order to study Maria’s medical file.
Lustigman presented the court with a detailed medical report outlining the health condition of the child, and informing the court that Maria constantly needs respirators, thorough medical attention, and is always dependent on her power chair.
Maria told the Bokra News Agency that she wants her “old life back”, and that she wants to be like other children, without her power chair, and without all of those machines.
“I want to live like other children do, I want to live without a power chair, without respirators”, she said, “As a child, I was robbed of my basic rights to live in peace, the Israeli missile killed my dear mother, my brother, my grandmother, and my uncle, and left me in this condition”.
“Today am fighting for my life in this court, trying to convince Israel to continue to pay for my much needed medical expenses”, Maria added, “Am still alive because of the extensive medical attention am receiving here, and my respirator, am moving around on my power chair, I can’t move any part of my body, I can only move my head”.
Hamdan: the Israeli entity will be removed in 10 years
Osama Hamdan, international relations official and member of Political Bureau of Hamas, said that the Israeli project will be removed soon, and that the Palestinian people and its resistance, which has sacrificed the blood of its sons and stood in the face of the Israeli war machine, will be the victorious. Hamdan said, during a public meeting in Khan Yunis on Thursday evening, that the Israeli entity will be removed in 10 years. Our next meeting will be in Jerusalem", he stressed, adding that they are preparing plans to achieve this.
The Palestinian issue is the whole nation's issue, he added, stressing their adherence to the Palestinian constants and principles, insisting on the resistance option to restore the Palestinian land.
He stressed that the changes in the Arab and Islamic region, constitute a clear and strong support to the Palestinian cause and its heroic resistance.
He pointed out that his visit to the Gaza Strip was due to the resistance's equation achieved during the last period, and its ability to impose its requirements and conditions on the occupation during the last truce.
Hamdan has visited, accompanied by a number of officials, the liberated lands in the northern Gaza strip, re-cultivated by the government, praising the achievements made in the region.
The Palestinian issue is the whole nation's issue, he added, stressing their adherence to the Palestinian constants and principles, insisting on the resistance option to restore the Palestinian land.
He stressed that the changes in the Arab and Islamic region, constitute a clear and strong support to the Palestinian cause and its heroic resistance.
He pointed out that his visit to the Gaza Strip was due to the resistance's equation achieved during the last period, and its ability to impose its requirements and conditions on the occupation during the last truce.
Hamdan has visited, accompanied by a number of officials, the liberated lands in the northern Gaza strip, re-cultivated by the government, praising the achievements made in the region.
Abbas To Invite Newly Elected Israeli MK’s To Ramallah
Israel daily, Yedioth Aharonoth, reported that Palestinian President, Mahmoud Abbas, intends to officially invite newly elected Israeli members of Knesset (MK) from leftist and centrist parties to visit him in Ramallah.
The Israeli paper said that a Palestinian source stated that the Palestinian leadership considers the rising Israeli party Yesh Atid (There is Future), headed by Yair Lapid, has a great significance and potential in Israeli politics.
Lapid’s party garnered 19 Knesset seats in the elections.
The Palestinian source added that Lapid will be the first to be invited to Ramallah, and that newly elected MK’s from the Labor Party, Meretz and even from the Likud Party of Benjamin Netanyahu will be invited to visit Ramallah.
Yedioth Aharonoth reported that Abbas wants to ensure that, unlike the previous government that was also headed by Netanyahu, the stalled peace process between Israel and the Palestinians will this time be on the agenda of the new Israeli government.
It said that Abbas wants to discuss the possibility of a peace agreement between the Palestinian Authority and Israel, and added that Lapid is the center of these talks.
The paper also said that Abbas wants to hold talks with moderate Israeli officials in an attempt to reach a peace deal between Israel and the Palestinians.
The exact time for this suggested meeting has not been determined yet, but will likely be held before a new Israeli government is formed, and before the elected MK’s are sworn in.
The final results of the Israeli election were declared Thursday granting the Likud-Beiteinu coalition (The electoral coalition between the Likud Party of Benjamin Netanyahu and Israel Our Home of Avigdor Lieberman) 31 seats.
This outcome is approximately %25 less than the number of seats garnered in the previous election. The 19 seats won by the Yesh Atid party puts it in the focus point of any strong coalition.
The Labor Party won 15 seats, followed by the far-right Jewish Home party that won 12 seats. The United Arab List only won five seats despite preliminary figures that indicated it garnered six seats.
The Israeli paper said that a Palestinian source stated that the Palestinian leadership considers the rising Israeli party Yesh Atid (There is Future), headed by Yair Lapid, has a great significance and potential in Israeli politics.
Lapid’s party garnered 19 Knesset seats in the elections.
The Palestinian source added that Lapid will be the first to be invited to Ramallah, and that newly elected MK’s from the Labor Party, Meretz and even from the Likud Party of Benjamin Netanyahu will be invited to visit Ramallah.
Yedioth Aharonoth reported that Abbas wants to ensure that, unlike the previous government that was also headed by Netanyahu, the stalled peace process between Israel and the Palestinians will this time be on the agenda of the new Israeli government.
It said that Abbas wants to discuss the possibility of a peace agreement between the Palestinian Authority and Israel, and added that Lapid is the center of these talks.
The paper also said that Abbas wants to hold talks with moderate Israeli officials in an attempt to reach a peace deal between Israel and the Palestinians.
The exact time for this suggested meeting has not been determined yet, but will likely be held before a new Israeli government is formed, and before the elected MK’s are sworn in.
The final results of the Israeli election were declared Thursday granting the Likud-Beiteinu coalition (The electoral coalition between the Likud Party of Benjamin Netanyahu and Israel Our Home of Avigdor Lieberman) 31 seats.
This outcome is approximately %25 less than the number of seats garnered in the previous election. The 19 seats won by the Yesh Atid party puts it in the focus point of any strong coalition.
The Labor Party won 15 seats, followed by the far-right Jewish Home party that won 12 seats. The United Arab List only won five seats despite preliminary figures that indicated it garnered six seats.
24 jan 2013
UN Official says Two-State Solution Slipping Away
United Nations special coordinator for the Middle East peace process, Robert Serry, Wednesday told a meeting of the Security Council that the two-state solution is gradually slipping away. “We are entering a critical period ahead, in which concerted action will be vital if we are to salvage the two-state solution,” he told the Council members.
Serry raised questions about 'the effectiveness of international efforts to bring about decisive results.” He expressed his genuine concern that “a clear and realistic path is still lacking.”
The UN official reiterated his organization’s intention to remain an integral part of efforts to urgently address “the dangerous political vacuum,” and the willingness to work with any initiative that will achieve the international community’s common goal, including in the context of the Quartet.
Serry urged the Palestinians and Israelis to “abstain from actions that will make efforts to resume meaningful negotiations even harder in the period ahead.”
He also noted worrying trends on the ground, including continued Israeli settlement construction and increased violence, and the seriously weakened capacity of the Palestinian Authority to meet its financial obligations.
He called on Israel to restore the timely, predictable and transparent transfers of tax and customs revenues without further delay. He also called on Members of the Arab League to urgently provide financial assistance in accordance with pledged commitments of December 9.
Serry warned “we should be under no illusion that the viability of the Palestinian Authority will be increasingly at stake if its standing is based on political 'quick-sand'. Ultimately, there is no future for the Palestinian Authority without a two-state solution.”
On Gaza, Serry noted that the calm brokered by Egypt in November has largely held, but remains tenuous.
Significantly, he said, no rockets or mortar shells landed in Israel in the reporting period.
The UN will remain engaged in Egyptian-led efforts to further progress on all aspects of the implementation of the ceasefire, he said.
He also emphasized that progress on the implementation of SCR 1860 also means overcoming the Palestinian divide.
“The peace process and reconciliation is not an ‘either-or’ proposition and must be made compatible by advancing both in a mutually reinforcing way,” he said.
Serry concluded that “the consequences for inaction could be dire for everyone. Therefore the parties must not only remain open to new initiatives to overcome the current impasse, but they must also demonstrate their seriousness.”
Serry raised questions about 'the effectiveness of international efforts to bring about decisive results.” He expressed his genuine concern that “a clear and realistic path is still lacking.”
The UN official reiterated his organization’s intention to remain an integral part of efforts to urgently address “the dangerous political vacuum,” and the willingness to work with any initiative that will achieve the international community’s common goal, including in the context of the Quartet.
Serry urged the Palestinians and Israelis to “abstain from actions that will make efforts to resume meaningful negotiations even harder in the period ahead.”
He also noted worrying trends on the ground, including continued Israeli settlement construction and increased violence, and the seriously weakened capacity of the Palestinian Authority to meet its financial obligations.
He called on Israel to restore the timely, predictable and transparent transfers of tax and customs revenues without further delay. He also called on Members of the Arab League to urgently provide financial assistance in accordance with pledged commitments of December 9.
Serry warned “we should be under no illusion that the viability of the Palestinian Authority will be increasingly at stake if its standing is based on political 'quick-sand'. Ultimately, there is no future for the Palestinian Authority without a two-state solution.”
On Gaza, Serry noted that the calm brokered by Egypt in November has largely held, but remains tenuous.
Significantly, he said, no rockets or mortar shells landed in Israel in the reporting period.
The UN will remain engaged in Egyptian-led efforts to further progress on all aspects of the implementation of the ceasefire, he said.
He also emphasized that progress on the implementation of SCR 1860 also means overcoming the Palestinian divide.
“The peace process and reconciliation is not an ‘either-or’ proposition and must be made compatible by advancing both in a mutually reinforcing way,” he said.
Serry concluded that “the consequences for inaction could be dire for everyone. Therefore the parties must not only remain open to new initiatives to overcome the current impasse, but they must also demonstrate their seriousness.”
Mishaal praises Qatar's role in supporting the Palestinian cause
The head of Hamas Political Bureau, Khaled Mishaal, confirmed that Qatar was one of the few countries that stood beside the Palestinian issue and supported its people. He welcomed the delegation of the recent Israeli aggression's victims, sent by the Palestinian government a week ago to Qatar in an official visit to the Qatari Emir.
He said that the victims delegation represents "the steadfastness of the land of Gaza, which is part of the land of Palestine," praising the Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani's efforts in supporting the people of Gaza.
He called on the martyrs' children to be proud by their parents, stressing that being a martyr's son is an honor to everyone. "You have to continue your parents' role in your families" he added.
He said that Gaza has won by the steadfastness of its people supported by the West Bank and the Arab and Muslim nation.
Gaza delegation of war victims has left to Qatar on Tuesday in a visit that could take 14 days, hosted by the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani and his wife Sheikha Mozah.
The delegation includes 45 children of the victims of the repeated Israeli massacres against the Palestinian people during Furqan and Shale Stones wars, most notably Dalu, Samouni, and Jabari families.
For his part, Gaza Reconstruction Committee Member Ahmed Zwaidi thanked the head of Hamas political bureau for organizing this meeting, indicating the most important programs implemented by the State of Qatar to support the steadfastness of the Palestinian people.
With regard to the role of the Gaza Reconstruction Committee, Zwaidi said that it is responsible for reconstruction projects as well as projects related to restoring basic services destroyed due to the siege and war. “We insist on services that affect children of Gaza because the blockade makes things especially difficult for them,” he added.
He also pointed out that the Emir’s patronage covers, not only the physical aspects of the individual Palestinians’ problems, but also extends to providing for a decent life for those who were affected by the war by taking care of their housing, Medicare and education needs.
He said that the victims delegation represents "the steadfastness of the land of Gaza, which is part of the land of Palestine," praising the Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani's efforts in supporting the people of Gaza.
He called on the martyrs' children to be proud by their parents, stressing that being a martyr's son is an honor to everyone. "You have to continue your parents' role in your families" he added.
He said that Gaza has won by the steadfastness of its people supported by the West Bank and the Arab and Muslim nation.
Gaza delegation of war victims has left to Qatar on Tuesday in a visit that could take 14 days, hosted by the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani and his wife Sheikha Mozah.
The delegation includes 45 children of the victims of the repeated Israeli massacres against the Palestinian people during Furqan and Shale Stones wars, most notably Dalu, Samouni, and Jabari families.
For his part, Gaza Reconstruction Committee Member Ahmed Zwaidi thanked the head of Hamas political bureau for organizing this meeting, indicating the most important programs implemented by the State of Qatar to support the steadfastness of the Palestinian people.
With regard to the role of the Gaza Reconstruction Committee, Zwaidi said that it is responsible for reconstruction projects as well as projects related to restoring basic services destroyed due to the siege and war. “We insist on services that affect children of Gaza because the blockade makes things especially difficult for them,” he added.
He also pointed out that the Emir’s patronage covers, not only the physical aspects of the individual Palestinians’ problems, but also extends to providing for a decent life for those who were affected by the war by taking care of their housing, Medicare and education needs.
Report: DFLP chief Nayif Hawatmah to return to Palestine
The secretary-general of the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine Nayif Hawatmah will return from Syria to the West Bank soon, the al-Liwaa newspaper reported Thursday.
Hawatmah is the last veteran PLO leader still in exile. The 84-year-old co-founded the Arab Nationalist Movement and played a major role in initiating the Palestinian revolution. He founded the DFLP in 1969 and was known as the "philosopher of the Palestinian revolution."
Palestinian sources told the Beirut-based al-Liwaa newspaper Hawatmah would soon return to the West Bank. President Mahmoud Abbas, secretary-general of Fatah, told the Beirut-based Al-Mayadeen satellite channel on Monday that efforts were ongoing to bring Hawatmah back to Palestine.
The DFLP leader is the only secretary-general of a PLO faction living in the diaspora.
Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine secretary-general Ahmad Saadat is serving a life sentence in an Israeli jail. He succeeded Abu Ali Mustafa, who was assassinated by a Israeli missile that hit his office in Ramallah in August 2001.
Ahmad Majdalani, secretary-general of the Palestinian Popular Struggle Front, Wasil Abu Yousif, secretary-general of the Palestinian Liberation Front and Jamil Shehada, Arab Palestinian Front secretary-general, are all based in the West Bank.
Arab Liberation Front secretary-general Rakad Salim, Palestinian People's Party secretary-general Bassam Salihi and secretary-general of the Palestinian Democratic Union Fida, Zahira Kamal, are also in the West Bank. Kamal is the only female leader of a PLO faction.
The secretary-generals of PFLP-General Command and Vanguards for the Popular Liberation War, Ahmad Jibril and Farhan Abu al-Hayja, are based in Syria. These factions are affiliated to the PLO but both are inactive in the organization's bodies.
Hamas, Islamic Jihad and the Palestinian National Initiative were established after the PLO was founded, but they are expected to join once an agreement is reached to restructure the organization.
Hamas chief Khalid Mashaal is living in exile in Doha, after leaving Damascus in 2012. Islamic Jihad secretary-general Ramadan Abdullah Shallah is still based in Syria.
Mustafa Barghouti, PNI leader, is based in Ramallah in the West Bank.
Hawatmah is the last veteran PLO leader still in exile. The 84-year-old co-founded the Arab Nationalist Movement and played a major role in initiating the Palestinian revolution. He founded the DFLP in 1969 and was known as the "philosopher of the Palestinian revolution."
Palestinian sources told the Beirut-based al-Liwaa newspaper Hawatmah would soon return to the West Bank. President Mahmoud Abbas, secretary-general of Fatah, told the Beirut-based Al-Mayadeen satellite channel on Monday that efforts were ongoing to bring Hawatmah back to Palestine.
The DFLP leader is the only secretary-general of a PLO faction living in the diaspora.
Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine secretary-general Ahmad Saadat is serving a life sentence in an Israeli jail. He succeeded Abu Ali Mustafa, who was assassinated by a Israeli missile that hit his office in Ramallah in August 2001.
Ahmad Majdalani, secretary-general of the Palestinian Popular Struggle Front, Wasil Abu Yousif, secretary-general of the Palestinian Liberation Front and Jamil Shehada, Arab Palestinian Front secretary-general, are all based in the West Bank.
Arab Liberation Front secretary-general Rakad Salim, Palestinian People's Party secretary-general Bassam Salihi and secretary-general of the Palestinian Democratic Union Fida, Zahira Kamal, are also in the West Bank. Kamal is the only female leader of a PLO faction.
The secretary-generals of PFLP-General Command and Vanguards for the Popular Liberation War, Ahmad Jibril and Farhan Abu al-Hayja, are based in Syria. These factions are affiliated to the PLO but both are inactive in the organization's bodies.
Hamas, Islamic Jihad and the Palestinian National Initiative were established after the PLO was founded, but they are expected to join once an agreement is reached to restructure the organization.
Hamas chief Khalid Mashaal is living in exile in Doha, after leaving Damascus in 2012. Islamic Jihad secretary-general Ramadan Abdullah Shallah is still based in Syria.
Mustafa Barghouti, PNI leader, is based in Ramallah in the West Bank.
Hamas: Voter registration to start in Gaza 'soon'
The government in Gaza will invite the Central Elections Commission to resume work in the enclave "soon", a Hamas official said Wednesday.
Salah al-Bardawil said Gaza premier Ismail Haniyeh will invite CEC chief Hanna Nasser to Gaza to start updating the electoral roll in preparation for a vote.
Al-Bardawil told Ma'an that Hamas was determined to implement the reconciliation agreements signed with Fatah in Cairo and Doha.
In May 2011, the parties signed an Egypt-brokered reconciliation deal, agreeing to form a unity government of technocrats and independents to prepare for national elections and end the division between the Hamas-run Gaza Strip and the Fatah-led Palestinian Authority in the West Bank.
Hamas chief Khalid Mashaal and Fatah leader President Mahmoud Abbas met recently in Cairo and agreed to set a timetable to implement the deal and reunite Palestine under one government.
The party leaders agreed that the CEC would resume operations in Gaza by the end of January.
The electoral roll has not been updated in Gaza since the last local elections were held in January 2005.
In July 2012, Hamas suspended the CEC's work a day before it was due to begin registering voters in Gaza, citing the continued arrest of Hamas members in the West Bank and its questions over the commission's impartiality.
Meanwhile, al-Bardawil said a new chief of Hamas' politburo will be announced soon.
Al-Bardawil said the party had completed "90 percent" of the process to elect Mashaal's successor, but the announcement of a new leader had been delayed by "technical issues."
Salah al-Bardawil said Gaza premier Ismail Haniyeh will invite CEC chief Hanna Nasser to Gaza to start updating the electoral roll in preparation for a vote.
Al-Bardawil told Ma'an that Hamas was determined to implement the reconciliation agreements signed with Fatah in Cairo and Doha.
In May 2011, the parties signed an Egypt-brokered reconciliation deal, agreeing to form a unity government of technocrats and independents to prepare for national elections and end the division between the Hamas-run Gaza Strip and the Fatah-led Palestinian Authority in the West Bank.
Hamas chief Khalid Mashaal and Fatah leader President Mahmoud Abbas met recently in Cairo and agreed to set a timetable to implement the deal and reunite Palestine under one government.
The party leaders agreed that the CEC would resume operations in Gaza by the end of January.
The electoral roll has not been updated in Gaza since the last local elections were held in January 2005.
In July 2012, Hamas suspended the CEC's work a day before it was due to begin registering voters in Gaza, citing the continued arrest of Hamas members in the West Bank and its questions over the commission's impartiality.
Meanwhile, al-Bardawil said a new chief of Hamas' politburo will be announced soon.
Al-Bardawil said the party had completed "90 percent" of the process to elect Mashaal's successor, but the announcement of a new leader had been delayed by "technical issues."
23 jan 2013
Abu Marzouk denounces claims about Hamas and Mursi's relationship
Deputy head of the Political Bureau of Hamas, Moussa Abu Marzouk, declared that the Gaza Strip is Egypt's eastern gateway, praising the Egyptian role towards the Palestinian cause, stressing that the Palestinian reconciliation will take place during the next few months. Abu Marzouk's statements came during a seminar held by the Arab front participating in the Palestinian resistance, on Tuesday evening at the Egyptian Press Syndicate under the title "For how long will Palestinians stay in Egypt".
Abu Marzouk expressed his surprise toward the seminar's title, saying "When I received the invitation and read the title (For how long will the Palestinians stay in Egypt?), I wondered how many Palestinians are there in Egypt to ask such a question?
Abu Marzouk stated that statistics confirmed that 3.5 million Palestinian refugees are in Jordan, while 300 thousand Palestinian refugees are in Saudi Arabia, and 67 thousand Palestinian refugees are in Syria, however only 54 thousand Palestinian refugees are in Egypt.
Regarding accusing Hamas of opening the Egyptian prisons during the Egyptian revolution, and causing power cuts in Egypt; Abu Marzouk denounced the military council's statement that accused the Palestinian resistance of killing the Egyptian people on the border in the last operation, pointing out that the power crisis experienced by Egypt during the revolution was caused due to the disruption of power plants that run by gas exported to the Israeli entity.
Abu Marzouk refused the claims raised about Hamas and Mursi's relationship, saying that 'this is an Egyptian internal political fight, and we have no relation with it," stressing that the border crossings are used only to enter the necessary food.
Mohamed Esmat Seif El Dawla, former adviser to the Egyptian president, said that many have marginalized the Palestinian cause due to the treaties signed between the two sides and the clear division between Fatah and Hamas movements.
Abu Marzouk expressed his surprise toward the seminar's title, saying "When I received the invitation and read the title (For how long will the Palestinians stay in Egypt?), I wondered how many Palestinians are there in Egypt to ask such a question?
Abu Marzouk stated that statistics confirmed that 3.5 million Palestinian refugees are in Jordan, while 300 thousand Palestinian refugees are in Saudi Arabia, and 67 thousand Palestinian refugees are in Syria, however only 54 thousand Palestinian refugees are in Egypt.
Regarding accusing Hamas of opening the Egyptian prisons during the Egyptian revolution, and causing power cuts in Egypt; Abu Marzouk denounced the military council's statement that accused the Palestinian resistance of killing the Egyptian people on the border in the last operation, pointing out that the power crisis experienced by Egypt during the revolution was caused due to the disruption of power plants that run by gas exported to the Israeli entity.
Abu Marzouk refused the claims raised about Hamas and Mursi's relationship, saying that 'this is an Egyptian internal political fight, and we have no relation with it," stressing that the border crossings are used only to enter the necessary food.
Mohamed Esmat Seif El Dawla, former adviser to the Egyptian president, said that many have marginalized the Palestinian cause due to the treaties signed between the two sides and the clear division between Fatah and Hamas movements.
Hamdan: The formation of the gov't to be tabled next Monday
Director of Hamas's international affairs Osama Hamdan said the talks between his Movement and Fatah about the formation of the Palestinian unity government will start next Monday. "The reconciliation today goes through a critical stage. The consultations on the formation of the government will start next Monday and a time frame for the launch of the election committee has been set," Hamdan stated in a ceremony held on Tuesday in Gaza city.
The Hamas official noted that the Palestinian parties agreed on the formation of joint committees in Gaza and the West Bank to address the security issues.
He affirmed that his Movement made real concessions in order to achieve the national reconciliation.
For his part, member of Hamas's political bureau Khalil Hayya said arrangements are being made to hold meetings between the two movements in Cairo next week to resume the talks about the national unity government.
Hayya told Quds Press on Tuesday that the reconciliation talks between his Movement and Fatah are positive and promising, noting that there would be a meeting next month to discuss the issue of the Palestinian liberation organization.
The Hamas official noted that the Palestinian parties agreed on the formation of joint committees in Gaza and the West Bank to address the security issues.
He affirmed that his Movement made real concessions in order to achieve the national reconciliation.
For his part, member of Hamas's political bureau Khalil Hayya said arrangements are being made to hold meetings between the two movements in Cairo next week to resume the talks about the national unity government.
Hayya told Quds Press on Tuesday that the reconciliation talks between his Movement and Fatah are positive and promising, noting that there would be a meeting next month to discuss the issue of the Palestinian liberation organization.
Hamas slams PA's position against visit of Malaysian premier to Gaza
The Hamas Movement repudiated the Palestinian authority in Ramallah city for declaring its disapproval of the Malaysian premier's current visit to Gaza and described its attitude as unjustifiable. The Palestinian authority in the West Bank had criticized the visit made by Malaysian premier Mohamed Abdul-Razzak to Gaza and claimed it would affect the Palestinian representation and strengthen the rift in the Palestinian arena.
In a press release, Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri condemned the position of the Palestinian authority and said such visits by Muslim and Arab officials contribute to strengthening the steadfastness of the Gaza people in the face of the Israeli blockade.
Spokesman for the Palestinian government in Gaza Taher Al-Nunu, in turn, hailed the Malaysian premier Mohamed Abdul-Razzak for his visit to Gaza and called it as one of the fruits of the victory made by the Palestinian resistance.
Nunu also stated that the visit reflected further that Gaza and its people are not alone and that their triumphs are pride for the Muslim nation.
In this regard, political analyst Hani Al-Basous said that the Malaysian premier's visit was so important to support the Palestinian political situation in Gaza.
Basous told the Palestinian information center (PIC) that the visit represented strong support for the legitimate Palestinian government in Gaza and its resistance option.
He stressed that every time the Israeli occupation regime launches a war against the Palestinian people in Gaza, the Palestinian resistance approach gathers international momentum because of the incredible state of steadfastness and fortitude in the face of aggression.
Later on Tuesday, Malaysian premier Mohamed Abdul-Razzak said he visited the Gaza Strip for humanitarian purposes and to support the Palestinian people and their quest for freedom.
"Some people seem to be unhappy about my visit, but we like to emphasize that we have come here to support our people in Gaza and to say to them that you are not alone in your struggle," Abdul-Razzak stated in a speech at Al-Aqsa university where he received an honorary doctorate from its presidency.
The visiting premier also said that his visit came to express on behalf of the Malaysian people their deep feelings towards the Gaza people.
"We pray to God to help you form the national unity government because we know from our experience in Malaysia that unity is strength and provides us with determination to face great challenges," the premier stated.
"I have come here after I had thought it over with my mind and heart and eventually decided to make this trip and travel all this distance to Gaza, and during the flight we flew over many Islamic countries and this denotes that the borders will never prevent us from meeting each other or separate us, for we are one [Muslim] nation," the premier emphasized.
In a press release, Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri condemned the position of the Palestinian authority and said such visits by Muslim and Arab officials contribute to strengthening the steadfastness of the Gaza people in the face of the Israeli blockade.
Spokesman for the Palestinian government in Gaza Taher Al-Nunu, in turn, hailed the Malaysian premier Mohamed Abdul-Razzak for his visit to Gaza and called it as one of the fruits of the victory made by the Palestinian resistance.
Nunu also stated that the visit reflected further that Gaza and its people are not alone and that their triumphs are pride for the Muslim nation.
In this regard, political analyst Hani Al-Basous said that the Malaysian premier's visit was so important to support the Palestinian political situation in Gaza.
Basous told the Palestinian information center (PIC) that the visit represented strong support for the legitimate Palestinian government in Gaza and its resistance option.
He stressed that every time the Israeli occupation regime launches a war against the Palestinian people in Gaza, the Palestinian resistance approach gathers international momentum because of the incredible state of steadfastness and fortitude in the face of aggression.
Later on Tuesday, Malaysian premier Mohamed Abdul-Razzak said he visited the Gaza Strip for humanitarian purposes and to support the Palestinian people and their quest for freedom.
"Some people seem to be unhappy about my visit, but we like to emphasize that we have come here to support our people in Gaza and to say to them that you are not alone in your struggle," Abdul-Razzak stated in a speech at Al-Aqsa university where he received an honorary doctorate from its presidency.
The visiting premier also said that his visit came to express on behalf of the Malaysian people their deep feelings towards the Gaza people.
"We pray to God to help you form the national unity government because we know from our experience in Malaysia that unity is strength and provides us with determination to face great challenges," the premier stated.
"I have come here after I had thought it over with my mind and heart and eventually decided to make this trip and travel all this distance to Gaza, and during the flight we flew over many Islamic countries and this denotes that the borders will never prevent us from meeting each other or separate us, for we are one [Muslim] nation," the premier emphasized.
Abu Marzouk: No differences over nomination of Abbas as premier of unity gov’t
Deputy political bureau chairman of Hamas Dr. Mousa Abu Marzouk has affirmed that there were no differences over the choice of Mahmoud Abbas as premier of the unity government. Abu Marzouk in an interview with Palestine TV to be broadcast on Wednesday said that the nomination was not in contradiction with the recent Cairo agreement.
He said that the formation of that government would be based on consultations between Fatah and Hamas to establish a government that backs reconciliation.
The Hamas leader said that the unity government should prioritize the reconstruction of Gaza Strip and carry out all missions agreed upon between Hamas and Fatah.
Abu Marzouk expected the Israeli elections to end up with victory for extremist parties, “and we should face them united”.
The political process would face major difficulties following the Israeli elections, he said, adding that Hamas refuses to remain committed to the sole option of negotiations with Israel.
Abu Marzouk denied presence of internal disputes within Hamas delaying the election of a new chairman for its political bureau, attributing the delay to “technical reasons”.
He said that the formation of that government would be based on consultations between Fatah and Hamas to establish a government that backs reconciliation.
The Hamas leader said that the unity government should prioritize the reconstruction of Gaza Strip and carry out all missions agreed upon between Hamas and Fatah.
Abu Marzouk expected the Israeli elections to end up with victory for extremist parties, “and we should face them united”.
The political process would face major difficulties following the Israeli elections, he said, adding that Hamas refuses to remain committed to the sole option of negotiations with Israel.
Abu Marzouk denied presence of internal disputes within Hamas delaying the election of a new chairman for its political bureau, attributing the delay to “technical reasons”.
Presidency: Israel Should Accept Palestinian State
Presidential spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeineh Wednesday said that the Palestinians “will deal with any Israeli government that abides by the United Nations General Assembly resolution that calls for the establishment of a Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders with Jerusalem as its capital.” He said that “this is way we will deal with the coming Israeli government, which has to choose between peace and stalemate that can be negative to all parties.”
Abu Rudeineh added that “we are ready to work with any government in Israel that accepts the existing international terms of reference that are based on UN resolutions.”
Abu Rudeineh added that “we are ready to work with any government in Israel that accepts the existing international terms of reference that are based on UN resolutions.”
Erekat: The New Israeli Government Must Save Two-State Solution
PLO Chief Negotiator, Saeb Erekat, said the Israeli elections for the 19th Knesset are an Israeli internal affair. Erekat also said that the new Israeli government must save the two-state solution if it seeks peace.
Erekat added that the implementation of the two-state solution will be after the Israeli government agrees to cease settlement construction and release all Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails.
Erekat added that the implementation of the two-state solution will be after the Israeli government agrees to cease settlement construction and release all Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails.
22 jan 2013
Haniyeh calls for Arab-Islamic strategy to confront the Israeli extremism
The Prime Minister, Ismail Haniyeh, called for the need to build a new strategy to confront the growing extremism in the Israeli entity, while stressing Hamas movement's efforts in the quest for reconciliation. Haniyeh said at a joint news conference with Malaysian Prime Minister Mohammed Najib Abdul Raziq, on Tuesday in Rafah, that "the inclination of the Israeli society to extremism by electing an extremist government requires an Arab and Muslim unified strategy to confront this extremism.
Regarding reconciliation, Haniyeh confirmed the seriousness of the government and Hamas in the quest to achieve Palestinian reconciliation.
We confirm to the Prime Minister of Malaysia our commitment to the option of reconciliation and national unity, he stated, expressing his readiness to facilitate the implementation of the reconciliation process.
Haniyeh welcomed the Prime Minister of Malaysia and his delegation, praising his country's economic renaissance, hoping to invest these capabilities in strengthening the steadfastness of the Palestinian people.
"We look forward to an influential role for Malaysia in supporting the Palestinian people to gain their rights, topped by the liberation of Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine," he added.
He appreciated the Malaysian rejection of the political and economic siege on Gaza, stressing that this visit came to break the siege on strip.
For his part, Prime Minister of Malaysia stressed that "this humanitarian visit came to confirm extreme Malaysian concern regarding what happened to the people in Gaza and the recent aggression," asserting that Malaysia will stand with the Palestinian people "until obtaining an independent Palestinian state"
He stressed the need to unite the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, saying "We hope to see a real unified Palestinian government."
The Malaysian Prime Minister Mohammed refused PA president's statement concerning his visit to the Gaza Strip, saying that they came in the context of a humanitarian mission to express support for the Palestinian people and their quest for freedom.
The Presidency of the Ramallah authority criticized Abdul Razak's visit, claiming that it represents an "encroachment" to the Palestinian representation and deepens the division.
Abdul Razak stressed that the solidarity visit came to offer support and assistance to the Palestinian people, pointing out that his country supported the establishment of a school and the rebuilding of the prime minister's office in Gaza, which was destroyed in the recent aggression.
Regarding reconciliation, Haniyeh confirmed the seriousness of the government and Hamas in the quest to achieve Palestinian reconciliation.
We confirm to the Prime Minister of Malaysia our commitment to the option of reconciliation and national unity, he stated, expressing his readiness to facilitate the implementation of the reconciliation process.
Haniyeh welcomed the Prime Minister of Malaysia and his delegation, praising his country's economic renaissance, hoping to invest these capabilities in strengthening the steadfastness of the Palestinian people.
"We look forward to an influential role for Malaysia in supporting the Palestinian people to gain their rights, topped by the liberation of Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine," he added.
He appreciated the Malaysian rejection of the political and economic siege on Gaza, stressing that this visit came to break the siege on strip.
For his part, Prime Minister of Malaysia stressed that "this humanitarian visit came to confirm extreme Malaysian concern regarding what happened to the people in Gaza and the recent aggression," asserting that Malaysia will stand with the Palestinian people "until obtaining an independent Palestinian state"
He stressed the need to unite the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, saying "We hope to see a real unified Palestinian government."
The Malaysian Prime Minister Mohammed refused PA president's statement concerning his visit to the Gaza Strip, saying that they came in the context of a humanitarian mission to express support for the Palestinian people and their quest for freedom.
The Presidency of the Ramallah authority criticized Abdul Razak's visit, claiming that it represents an "encroachment" to the Palestinian representation and deepens the division.
Abdul Razak stressed that the solidarity visit came to offer support and assistance to the Palestinian people, pointing out that his country supported the establishment of a school and the rebuilding of the prime minister's office in Gaza, which was destroyed in the recent aggression.
Activists plan to establish Bab Al-Qamar village in Yatta to face settlement
Palestinian and foreign activists on Monday declared their intention to establish a new anti-settlement village named Bab Al-Qamar on the eastern mountain slopes of Yatta town, south of Al-Khalil city. Rateb Al-Jabour, coordinator of the national committee against the wall and settlement in Yatta, told the Palestinian information center (PIC) that the village would be established in order to encounter the expansion of Israel's settlements and the Judaization activities in this area.
Jabour affirmed that the activists are embarking on making preparations for the establishment of Bab Al-Qamar village in a step similar to the idea of Bab Ashams and Al-Karama villages which had been created lately to confront Israel's settlement activities.
"The creation of this village falls under the Palestinian popular resistance which the Palestinian people from different spectra and affiliations have participated in, and we will continue this work until the occupation ends its greediness, the building of the apartheid wall and the confiscation of Palestinian lands," he underscored.
Jabour affirmed that the activists are embarking on making preparations for the establishment of Bab Al-Qamar village in a step similar to the idea of Bab Ashams and Al-Karama villages which had been created lately to confront Israel's settlement activities.
"The creation of this village falls under the Palestinian popular resistance which the Palestinian people from different spectra and affiliations have participated in, and we will continue this work until the occupation ends its greediness, the building of the apartheid wall and the confiscation of Palestinian lands," he underscored.
Malaysian premier arrives in Gaza
The Malaysian premier Mohammed Najib arrived in the Gaza Strip via the Rafah border crossing on Tuesday to an official welcome ceremony. Premier Ismail Haneyya and a number of ministers, MPs, and leaders of factions received Najib and the accompanying delegation on arrival at the Rafah terminal.
Najib, during his few hours visit, will meet with Haneyya, tour the devastated cabinet building, and visit families of martyrs who were killed in the latest Israeli aggression on Gaza.
The Malaysian premier is also scheduled to meet with a number of Palestinian figures and academicians at the Aqsa University and lay down the foundation stone of a school financed by his country in Zahra city in the central Gaza Strip.
Dr. Sami Abu Zuhri, a Hamas spokesman, welcomed Najib’s visit, describing it as a practical break of the economic and political blockade imposed on Gaza, Hamas movement and the Palestinian people.
He told the PIC that the visit addressed a “strong message” to the Israeli occupation that its war on Gaza led to counter results.
Abu Zuhri called for more such visits and for more support for the Palestinian people.
Najib, during his few hours visit, will meet with Haneyya, tour the devastated cabinet building, and visit families of martyrs who were killed in the latest Israeli aggression on Gaza.
The Malaysian premier is also scheduled to meet with a number of Palestinian figures and academicians at the Aqsa University and lay down the foundation stone of a school financed by his country in Zahra city in the central Gaza Strip.
Dr. Sami Abu Zuhri, a Hamas spokesman, welcomed Najib’s visit, describing it as a practical break of the economic and political blockade imposed on Gaza, Hamas movement and the Palestinian people.
He told the PIC that the visit addressed a “strong message” to the Israeli occupation that its war on Gaza led to counter results.
Abu Zuhri called for more such visits and for more support for the Palestinian people.
Study: Allow Gaza Population to Expand into Sinai
A study published Monday by a Palestinian engineer recommends solving the Gaza Strip's "population explosion" by allowing the enclave to expand into the Sinai Peninsula.
The study also recommends transferring some of the Gaza Strip's residents to the West Bank and setting rules for birth control as a way of solving the problem.
The study was prepared by engineer Mustafa al-Farra and published in the daily Al- Quds newspaper.
He also suggested vertical construction and filling parts of the sea as possible methods to solve the problems facing the residents of the Gaza Strip.
In his study, Farra talked about the possibility of leasing lands in from the Egyptians for 99 years. He noted that while the talk about leasing lands from Egypt sounded "strange" to some, it was nevertheless possible as precedents have already been created in other parts of the world.
Farra mentioned Hong Kong as an example, pointing out that it had been leased to Britain for a similar period of time. Another example was Guantanamo Bay, which the US leased from Cuba, he added.
The study said that while the West Bank is 15 times bigger than the Gaza Strip, the population in the Gaza Strip was nine times larger than that of the West Bank.
Unconfirmed reports published in a number of Egyptian newspapers recently claimed that Hamas has been planning to settle Palestinians in Sinai and declare a Palestinian state there. Many Egyptians have strongly come out against the alleged plan, calling on their government to prevent Palestinians from moving to Sinai.
Writing in the Egyptian newspaper Al-Ahram Weekly last October, columnist Ahmad Naguib Roushdy said: "Even if they are only rumors, these rumors have roots in Egypt's history. Every Egyptian sympathizes with the Palestinian cause, and much Egyptian blood has been shed in defense of it.
But if these rumors are true, the Palestinians have shown themselves to be ungrateful and could be considered to be Egypt's enemies.
"The Egyptian government should force any Palestinians in Sinai now to return to where they came from," he wrote. "I believe that the [Egyptian] revolution did not only aspire to freedom and dignity, but also to the idea that Egypt is for all Egyptians.
We are not leaves to be blown about in foreign winds."
The study also recommends transferring some of the Gaza Strip's residents to the West Bank and setting rules for birth control as a way of solving the problem.
The study was prepared by engineer Mustafa al-Farra and published in the daily Al- Quds newspaper.
He also suggested vertical construction and filling parts of the sea as possible methods to solve the problems facing the residents of the Gaza Strip.
In his study, Farra talked about the possibility of leasing lands in from the Egyptians for 99 years. He noted that while the talk about leasing lands from Egypt sounded "strange" to some, it was nevertheless possible as precedents have already been created in other parts of the world.
Farra mentioned Hong Kong as an example, pointing out that it had been leased to Britain for a similar period of time. Another example was Guantanamo Bay, which the US leased from Cuba, he added.
The study said that while the West Bank is 15 times bigger than the Gaza Strip, the population in the Gaza Strip was nine times larger than that of the West Bank.
Unconfirmed reports published in a number of Egyptian newspapers recently claimed that Hamas has been planning to settle Palestinians in Sinai and declare a Palestinian state there. Many Egyptians have strongly come out against the alleged plan, calling on their government to prevent Palestinians from moving to Sinai.
Writing in the Egyptian newspaper Al-Ahram Weekly last October, columnist Ahmad Naguib Roushdy said: "Even if they are only rumors, these rumors have roots in Egypt's history. Every Egyptian sympathizes with the Palestinian cause, and much Egyptian blood has been shed in defense of it.
But if these rumors are true, the Palestinians have shown themselves to be ungrateful and could be considered to be Egypt's enemies.
"The Egyptian government should force any Palestinians in Sinai now to return to where they came from," he wrote. "I believe that the [Egyptian] revolution did not only aspire to freedom and dignity, but also to the idea that Egypt is for all Egyptians.
We are not leaves to be blown about in foreign winds."
21 jan 2013
Netanyahu: “No To Palestinian State, Yes To Settlements”
Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, stated Sunday that he totally rejects that idea of establishing a Palestinian state, and spoke of a “sort of autonomy for the Palestinians”. He also said that Israel will continue to build settlements in the occupied West Bank, and in occupied East Jerusalem.
“I do not want the Palestinians to become Israeli citizens”, Netanyahu said, “I don’t want to control them either”.
In a Televised interview with the Walla Israeli News, Netanyahu said that Israel will have to reach a sort of an understanding “granting the Palestinians some sort of a disarmed authority”.
He strongly rejected any sort of Palestinian “entity” in this current stage, and said that “Israel needs to know what it can do; Abu Mazin (Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas) is hugging Hamas, the same group that calls for our annihilation”, according to Netanyahu.
The Arabs48 news website reported that Netanyahu also said that Israeli leftist parties are “shedding a blind eye on what is happening”, adding that “leftist parties just want an agreement regardless of the consequences”.
“This is the same way we handed Gaza to the Palestinians”, Netanyahu said while referring to the Gaza Disengagement Plan conducted by former Prime Minister, Ariel Sharon, of Netanyahu’s Likud party,
“In no time, Hamas was able to control Gaza, and obtained dozens of thousands of Iranian missiles”, he claimed.
As for Israel’s illegal settlement construction and expansion activities, Netanyahu said that a government under his command will never evict any settlement.
“I never removed a single settlement, and I don’t intend to remove any”, he added, “We removed the settlers from Gaza, and look what happened; I will never do such a thing”.
The Israeli Prime Minister further stated that Israel will not evict settlements under any peace agreement with the Palestinians, and added that the settlement blocs of Gush Ezion, Ariel and Maale Adumim will always be part of Israel.
He also said that his government does not only build within the boundaries of the existing settlements in the West Bank and occupied Jerusalem, but wherever it can.
As for smaller settlements not located within settlement blocs, Netanyahu said that this issue will be determined in negotiations, but also said that he will never evict any settlement as long as he is leading Israel.
Responding to a question about Iran, Netanyahu said that he is doing whatever he can “to prevent Tehran from becoming a nuclear power”, and even vowed that as long as he is the Prime Minister, Iran will never be able to become a nuclear power.
He also said that his polices also include other important files, such as what we called “Syrian chemical weapons”, missiles obtained by the Hezbollah party in Lebanon, in addition to interior issues such as reducing housing costs.
“I do not want the Palestinians to become Israeli citizens”, Netanyahu said, “I don’t want to control them either”.
In a Televised interview with the Walla Israeli News, Netanyahu said that Israel will have to reach a sort of an understanding “granting the Palestinians some sort of a disarmed authority”.
He strongly rejected any sort of Palestinian “entity” in this current stage, and said that “Israel needs to know what it can do; Abu Mazin (Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas) is hugging Hamas, the same group that calls for our annihilation”, according to Netanyahu.
The Arabs48 news website reported that Netanyahu also said that Israeli leftist parties are “shedding a blind eye on what is happening”, adding that “leftist parties just want an agreement regardless of the consequences”.
“This is the same way we handed Gaza to the Palestinians”, Netanyahu said while referring to the Gaza Disengagement Plan conducted by former Prime Minister, Ariel Sharon, of Netanyahu’s Likud party,
“In no time, Hamas was able to control Gaza, and obtained dozens of thousands of Iranian missiles”, he claimed.
As for Israel’s illegal settlement construction and expansion activities, Netanyahu said that a government under his command will never evict any settlement.
“I never removed a single settlement, and I don’t intend to remove any”, he added, “We removed the settlers from Gaza, and look what happened; I will never do such a thing”.
The Israeli Prime Minister further stated that Israel will not evict settlements under any peace agreement with the Palestinians, and added that the settlement blocs of Gush Ezion, Ariel and Maale Adumim will always be part of Israel.
He also said that his government does not only build within the boundaries of the existing settlements in the West Bank and occupied Jerusalem, but wherever it can.
As for smaller settlements not located within settlement blocs, Netanyahu said that this issue will be determined in negotiations, but also said that he will never evict any settlement as long as he is leading Israel.
Responding to a question about Iran, Netanyahu said that he is doing whatever he can “to prevent Tehran from becoming a nuclear power”, and even vowed that as long as he is the Prime Minister, Iran will never be able to become a nuclear power.
He also said that his polices also include other important files, such as what we called “Syrian chemical weapons”, missiles obtained by the Hezbollah party in Lebanon, in addition to interior issues such as reducing housing costs.
Issa: The idea of the Jewish state goes against the right of return
The Islamic Christian commission for patronizing Jerusalem and holy sites said that any Palestinian or Arab recognition of Israel as a Jewish state goes against the principle of the right of return and would torpedo all Palestinian rights. This came in a press release issued by secretary-general of the commission Hanna Issa, a specialist in international law, in response to recent remarks by Israeli premier Benjamin Netanyahu who said that the Palestinians' recognition of Israel as a Jewish state would not be enough for Israel to agree on the establishment of the Palestinian state.
Netanyahu also said that the Palestinians should, rather, change their upbringing methods they use to raise their children first and stop their propaganda against Israel and its Jewish people in order for their state to exist.
Issa stressed that the mere idea of recognizing Israel as a Jewish state poses a threat to the Palestinian cause, and would deprives the Palestinian natives of the 1948 occupied lands of their right to stay in their homeland and legitimize all Israel's racist laws against them.
He added that Israel uses the slogan of the Jewish state persistently for it is the most effective way to end the Palestinian refugees' right to return to their homeland and erase this right from the UN agendas, especially the resolution 194 issued by the UN general assembly in 1948.
Netanyahu want to weaken the 1948 Palestinians demographically and politically and to strengthen the Jewish identity of Israel, Issa stated.
In a related context, the Hamas Movement's department of refugee affairs called on the Palestinian authority in the West Bank and the government in Gaza to declare 2013 a year for the refugees and their right to return.
Head of the department Isam Idwan stated on Sunday that this appeal was made in light of the tragic living conditions of the Palestinian refugees in Syria, Lebanon and Gaza.
Netanyahu also said that the Palestinians should, rather, change their upbringing methods they use to raise their children first and stop their propaganda against Israel and its Jewish people in order for their state to exist.
Issa stressed that the mere idea of recognizing Israel as a Jewish state poses a threat to the Palestinian cause, and would deprives the Palestinian natives of the 1948 occupied lands of their right to stay in their homeland and legitimize all Israel's racist laws against them.
He added that Israel uses the slogan of the Jewish state persistently for it is the most effective way to end the Palestinian refugees' right to return to their homeland and erase this right from the UN agendas, especially the resolution 194 issued by the UN general assembly in 1948.
Netanyahu want to weaken the 1948 Palestinians demographically and politically and to strengthen the Jewish identity of Israel, Issa stated.
In a related context, the Hamas Movement's department of refugee affairs called on the Palestinian authority in the West Bank and the government in Gaza to declare 2013 a year for the refugees and their right to return.
Head of the department Isam Idwan stated on Sunday that this appeal was made in light of the tragic living conditions of the Palestinian refugees in Syria, Lebanon and Gaza.
Hamdan: real developments in the reconciliation process next month
Osama Hamdan, international relations official and member of Political Bureau of Hamas, confirmed his movement commitment to the implementation of what was agreed upon in the last meeting in Cairo, with regard to ending the Palestinian split. Hamdan told PIC's reporter, on Monday following a visit to a tent erected in Gaza in solidarity the prisoners, that the Palestinian people will see during the next month real developments on the ground regarding the reconciliation, and which will be represented in the timetable for the start of the implementation of all issues relating to reconciliation.
The Egyptian sponsor has recently confirmed that Fatah and Hamas movements agreed on the timetable and timings for the start of the implementation of all issues relating to reconciliation, and which will start from January 17 until January 30.
Hamdan stressed that his movement will not accept the division of the Palestinian people, noting that the first to benefit from the continued division is Israel.
He stated that Hamas considers achieving reconciliation with Fatah a strategic choice and will not give it up especially in light of the positive atmosphere that prevailed after the victory of the resistance in the Shale Stones battle and holding festival of Fatah's anniversary in Gaza.
The member of Hamas' political bureau noted that there are no longer obstacles facing the process of reconciliation.
Hamdan also called on the Palestinian people in the West Bank and Jerusalem to confront the occupation's repeated violations against Al-Aqsa Mosque and the settlement activity, stressing that the resistance is the only option to confront the occupation's violations, liberate the prisoners and achieve the right of return.
The Egyptian sponsor has recently confirmed that Fatah and Hamas movements agreed on the timetable and timings for the start of the implementation of all issues relating to reconciliation, and which will start from January 17 until January 30.
Hamdan stressed that his movement will not accept the division of the Palestinian people, noting that the first to benefit from the continued division is Israel.
He stated that Hamas considers achieving reconciliation with Fatah a strategic choice and will not give it up especially in light of the positive atmosphere that prevailed after the victory of the resistance in the Shale Stones battle and holding festival of Fatah's anniversary in Gaza.
The member of Hamas' political bureau noted that there are no longer obstacles facing the process of reconciliation.
Hamdan also called on the Palestinian people in the West Bank and Jerusalem to confront the occupation's repeated violations against Al-Aqsa Mosque and the settlement activity, stressing that the resistance is the only option to confront the occupation's violations, liberate the prisoners and achieve the right of return.
Haneyya receive Hamas official Osama Hamdan in Gaza
Palestinian premier Ismail Haneyya received on Sunday director of Hamas's international affairs Osama Hamdan who visits Gaza for the first time since he left it more than thirty years ago. During the meeting, premier Haneyya hailed Hamdan as one of the Hamas prominent leaders of the resistance project.
Haneyya stated that the successive visits made by Palestinian leaders to Gaza confirm their adherence to the Palestinian right of return.
"Gaza's reception of these leaders is part of the divine victory which God has blessed us with, and reflects the unity of the Palestinian people at home and abroad," the premier said.
For his part, Osama Hamdan expressed his happiness to visit his homeland and be among his people in Gaza following the victory of the resistance in the last war against the occupation.
Haneyya stated that the successive visits made by Palestinian leaders to Gaza confirm their adherence to the Palestinian right of return.
"Gaza's reception of these leaders is part of the divine victory which God has blessed us with, and reflects the unity of the Palestinian people at home and abroad," the premier said.
For his part, Osama Hamdan expressed his happiness to visit his homeland and be among his people in Gaza following the victory of the resistance in the last war against the occupation.
20 jan 2013
Tunisian president arrives in Gaza early next month
Abdel Salam Seyam, Secretary General of the Council of Ministers, revealed that the Tunisian President Moncef Marzouki will arrive to the Gaza Strip early next February, in a solidarity visit with the Palestinian people in the besieged Gaza Strip. Seyam told "Palestine" local newspaper on Sunday that "the Gazan government carried out all necessary preparations for the reception of the Tunisian president in the Gaza Strip," asserting that he is "an important guest who has a big influence in the Arab and Muslim world and North Africa ".
He added that the visit will have political and non-political implications on the overall Palestinian situation, and the fraternal relations between the Palestinian and Tunisian peoples, praising the role of the new Tunisian leadership for its support for the Palestinian cause.
Seyam said that the Tunisian president's visit will be preceded by a visit by the Malaysian Prime Minister Mohammed Najib during this week, accompanied by a large ministerial delegation, noting that it is the first visit of a Prime Minister from the Islamic countries to the Gaza Strip.
He pointed out that the talks about the Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir's visit to the strip cannot be confirmed at present, stressing that the visit of any Arab official to Palestine is welcomed.
He added that the visit will have political and non-political implications on the overall Palestinian situation, and the fraternal relations between the Palestinian and Tunisian peoples, praising the role of the new Tunisian leadership for its support for the Palestinian cause.
Seyam said that the Tunisian president's visit will be preceded by a visit by the Malaysian Prime Minister Mohammed Najib during this week, accompanied by a large ministerial delegation, noting that it is the first visit of a Prime Minister from the Islamic countries to the Gaza Strip.
He pointed out that the talks about the Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir's visit to the strip cannot be confirmed at present, stressing that the visit of any Arab official to Palestine is welcomed.
A Palestinian intellectual calls for a 3rd intifada in West Bank
Palestinian intellectual, Munir Shafiq, called for the launch of a third intifada (uprising) in the occupied West Bank to confront the attacks of the occupation and the arrogance of the settlers. Shafiq, the General Coordinator of the Islamic National Conference, said during a meeting with a number of writers and elites held by Hamas Movement on Saturday evening in Gaza, that launching a Palestinian Intifada in the West Bank has become necessary for stopping the occupation's arrogance and for protecting Jerusalem and the holy sites.
He stressed that there are strong indicators of the possibility of the outbreak of this Intifada, and said: "Washington is not able to withstand a Palestinian uprising for a few months and the occupation will have to retreat, on condition not to accept to negotiate with it."
Shafiq expressed his conviction that the United States of America and Israel are witnessing a state of weakness, calling for exploiting this weakness to launch the Palestinian Intifada and determining the national goals.
Shafiq expressed his confidence in the future of the Arab Spring and rejected some views linking it to the American administration and claiming that the Arab countries' revolutions are an American-made.
"The revolutions were launched because America has much weakened and has faced defeats during the last decade; which led to the failure of the American plan for the establishment of a new Middle East in the region," Shafiq said.
He also pointed that the repercussions of the world financial crisis, which hit the major companies, have further weakened the American and Western control over the world, and stressed that the U.S. administration has become no longer the dominant power.
The Palestinian intellectual believed that the outcome of the Shale Stone war represent a clear evidence on the weakness of the American and Israeli administrations, asserting that Gaza has achieved victory.
He stressed that there are strong indicators of the possibility of the outbreak of this Intifada, and said: "Washington is not able to withstand a Palestinian uprising for a few months and the occupation will have to retreat, on condition not to accept to negotiate with it."
Shafiq expressed his conviction that the United States of America and Israel are witnessing a state of weakness, calling for exploiting this weakness to launch the Palestinian Intifada and determining the national goals.
Shafiq expressed his confidence in the future of the Arab Spring and rejected some views linking it to the American administration and claiming that the Arab countries' revolutions are an American-made.
"The revolutions were launched because America has much weakened and has faced defeats during the last decade; which led to the failure of the American plan for the establishment of a new Middle East in the region," Shafiq said.
He also pointed that the repercussions of the world financial crisis, which hit the major companies, have further weakened the American and Western control over the world, and stressed that the U.S. administration has become no longer the dominant power.
The Palestinian intellectual believed that the outcome of the Shale Stone war represent a clear evidence on the weakness of the American and Israeli administrations, asserting that Gaza has achieved victory.
Bahr heads delegation to 8th session of OIC union of assemblies in Khartoum
First deputy speaker of the Palestinian legislative council (PLC) Ahmed Bahr led a parliamentary delegation to Sudan to attend the 8th session of the union of assemblies of the member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. Bahr received an official invitation from the speaker of the Sudanese parliament, chairman of the current session.
The parliamentary delegation left Gaza on Saturday through the Rafah border crossing.
Before leaving for Khartoum, Bahr received members of the Libyan aid convoy upon their arrival in Gaza.
The deputy speaker said during his meeting with the Libyan delegation that Palestine has become a mecca for the world's free peoples and hailed the Libyan people for their generous support for Gaza.
The parliamentary delegation left Gaza on Saturday through the Rafah border crossing.
Before leaving for Khartoum, Bahr received members of the Libyan aid convoy upon their arrival in Gaza.
The deputy speaker said during his meeting with the Libyan delegation that Palestine has become a mecca for the world's free peoples and hailed the Libyan people for their generous support for Gaza.
Hamdan arrives in Gaza on Sunday
Osama Hamdan, in charge of Hamas’s foreign relations, is to arrive in the Gaza Strip on Sunday, Dr. Sami Abu Zuhri, a Hamas spokesman, said. Abu Zuhri told the PIC that Hamdan’s visit, the first of its kind, was a natural visit by a leader to his country after a long period of living in the diaspora.
The political bureau chairman of Hamas Khaled Mishaal, his deputy Dr. Mousa Abu Marzouk, and political bureau members Ezzet Al-Resheq and Mohammed Nasr visited Gaza in December 2012 to attend Hamas’s celebration of its foundling anniversary.
The political bureau chairman of Hamas Khaled Mishaal, his deputy Dr. Mousa Abu Marzouk, and political bureau members Ezzet Al-Resheq and Mohammed Nasr visited Gaza in December 2012 to attend Hamas’s celebration of its foundling anniversary.
19 jan 2013
Conference on Britain’s legacy in Palestine kicks off
LONDON, (PIC)-- The Palestinian Return Centre (PRC) in London announced the completion of preparations for the start of the fourth Palestine Memorial Week in Britain.
It will coincide with the international conference looking at Britain’s legacy in Palestine and will include a number of events across different universities in the UK.
Supporters of the Palestinian cause will participate in the events that will include films and shows talking about Gaza, Jerusalem, the Nakba and the racial separation wall.
A film screening highlighting the plight of Palestinian Refugees from Iraq titled “Displaced in Diaspora” and produced by the Palestinian Return Centre, will be shown on 25 January 2013 in the presence of film critics and representatives of Aljazeera News Network.
The PRC said in a statement, “The international conference looking at Britain’s legacy in Palestine will coincide with the fourth Palestine Memorial Week, from 19th-25th Jan 2013, and be the formal launching pad for International Balfour Campaign, which is a five year initiative by the PRC to mark the centenary of the Balfour Declaration in 2017”.
The conference will be inaugurated by Prof Manuel Hassassian, Palestinian Ambassador to the UK, Mohamad Al-Hamid of PRC and a number of activists.
It will coincide with the international conference looking at Britain’s legacy in Palestine and will include a number of events across different universities in the UK.
Supporters of the Palestinian cause will participate in the events that will include films and shows talking about Gaza, Jerusalem, the Nakba and the racial separation wall.
A film screening highlighting the plight of Palestinian Refugees from Iraq titled “Displaced in Diaspora” and produced by the Palestinian Return Centre, will be shown on 25 January 2013 in the presence of film critics and representatives of Aljazeera News Network.
The PRC said in a statement, “The international conference looking at Britain’s legacy in Palestine will coincide with the fourth Palestine Memorial Week, from 19th-25th Jan 2013, and be the formal launching pad for International Balfour Campaign, which is a five year initiative by the PRC to mark the centenary of the Balfour Declaration in 2017”.
The conference will be inaugurated by Prof Manuel Hassassian, Palestinian Ambassador to the UK, Mohamad Al-Hamid of PRC and a number of activists.
18 jan 2013
Hamas and Fatah agree to start implementing the reconciliation
Hamas and Fatah movements agreed at the end of a meeting held between delegations of the two movements with the participation of the Egyptian intelligence chief Maj. Gen. Raafat Shehata, to begin implementing the reconciliation agreement. The Egyptian mediator said after the meeting, in a statement published by Hamas politburo, that they agreed on the schedule to start the implementation of all issues relating to the reconciliation starting today up 30 January
Egypt praised the "two parties' seriousness and responses to the aspirations and demands of the Palestinian people", stressing that Egypt will follow the commitment of the two parties in implementing the reconciliation process to overcome any obstacles.
Reliable sources told PIC reporter that it was agreed during the meeting to begin the work of the four reconciliation committees before the end of this month.
The sources pointed out that the Central Election Commission, and the Commission on public freedoms and the Commission for Social reconciliation, will resume their work in parallel with the government talks.
The sources confirmed that it was agreed to stop negative media statements because it would disrupt the reconciliation process, as it was decided to postpone the Palestine Liberation Organization issue to the first week of next February.
Hamas delegation included Moussa Abu Marzouk, Vice President of the Hamas Political Bureau, and members of Hamas Political Bureau, Izzat al-Risheq, Khalil al-Hayya and Nizar Awadallah, while Fatah delegation included Azzam al-Ahmad, Sakher Bseiso and Majed Faraj.
Izzat al-Risheq declared that the meeting was positive, where they prepared a road map and timetables for the implementation of the reconciliation agreement.
On February 9, a meeting lead by PA president Mahmoud Abbas and Mashaal will be held to discuss the election file.
Regarding the appointment of a deputy of prime minister in Gaza and another in the West Bank, he said that "they did not discuss this topic in the meeting and such issues will be dealt with the Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas."
He denied that Fatah movement suggested disbanding Qassam Brigades saying that such claims aimed to foil the reconciliation talks.
For his part, Hamas politburo member Khalil al-Hayya, said that the atmosphere was positive and we will facilitate the Election Commission's entrance into Gaza.
Egypt praised the "two parties' seriousness and responses to the aspirations and demands of the Palestinian people", stressing that Egypt will follow the commitment of the two parties in implementing the reconciliation process to overcome any obstacles.
Reliable sources told PIC reporter that it was agreed during the meeting to begin the work of the four reconciliation committees before the end of this month.
The sources pointed out that the Central Election Commission, and the Commission on public freedoms and the Commission for Social reconciliation, will resume their work in parallel with the government talks.
The sources confirmed that it was agreed to stop negative media statements because it would disrupt the reconciliation process, as it was decided to postpone the Palestine Liberation Organization issue to the first week of next February.
Hamas delegation included Moussa Abu Marzouk, Vice President of the Hamas Political Bureau, and members of Hamas Political Bureau, Izzat al-Risheq, Khalil al-Hayya and Nizar Awadallah, while Fatah delegation included Azzam al-Ahmad, Sakher Bseiso and Majed Faraj.
Izzat al-Risheq declared that the meeting was positive, where they prepared a road map and timetables for the implementation of the reconciliation agreement.
On February 9, a meeting lead by PA president Mahmoud Abbas and Mashaal will be held to discuss the election file.
Regarding the appointment of a deputy of prime minister in Gaza and another in the West Bank, he said that "they did not discuss this topic in the meeting and such issues will be dealt with the Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas."
He denied that Fatah movement suggested disbanding Qassam Brigades saying that such claims aimed to foil the reconciliation talks.
For his part, Hamas politburo member Khalil al-Hayya, said that the atmosphere was positive and we will facilitate the Election Commission's entrance into Gaza.
17 jan 2013
Abu Marzouk: No new suggestions in reconciliation talks
Dr. Mousa Abu Marzouk, the deputy politburo chief of the Islamic Resistance Movement Hamas, predicted that today's meeting between Fatah and Hamas delegations in Cairo, will establish a road map for all the agreed topics with all the Palestinian factions. Abu Marzouk denied in an exclusive interview with PIC reporter on Thursday, that Fatah movement has suggested to disband the Qassam Brigades or other military resistance wings to implement the reconciliation", and denied any new security suggestions from the Egyptian side .
Abu Marzouk confirmed that there are no new issues on the tables saying "we have enough issues to deal with."
Regarding the security talks in reconciliation file, he said that the security file is delayed and it will be under the Egyptian and Arab supervision.
Abu Marzouk confirmed that the security issue has not been raised in any talks that took place recently.
Abu Marzouk confirmed that there are no new issues on the tables saying "we have enough issues to deal with."
Regarding the security talks in reconciliation file, he said that the security file is delayed and it will be under the Egyptian and Arab supervision.
Abu Marzouk confirmed that the security issue has not been raised in any talks that took place recently.
Erdogan phones Abbas and Mishaal, urges them to end division
Turkish premier Recep Erdogan phoned Mahmoud Abbas and Hamas political leader Khaled Mishaal to urge them to expedite their efforts to end the Palestinian division. Anatolia news agency said that Abbas and Mishaal briefed, over the phone, the Turkish premier on the latest developments of the national talks between their delegations in Cairo.
Erdogan expressed his happiness for the efforts being made by the leaders of the two movements to end the rift in the Palestinian arena.
He stated that his government is keenly following the inter-Palestinian talks in Cairo and longs to see the Palestinians succeed in ending the division and becoming united in the face of the Israeli occupation.
Erdogan expressed his happiness for the efforts being made by the leaders of the two movements to end the rift in the Palestinian arena.
He stated that his government is keenly following the inter-Palestinian talks in Cairo and longs to see the Palestinians succeed in ending the division and becoming united in the face of the Israeli occupation.
Haneyya government invites Moroccan premier to visit Gaza
Abdulilah Bin Keiran
Dr. Ghazi Hamad, the Palestinian foreign undersecretary, met in Rabat with Moroccan premier Abdulilah Bin Keiran on Wednesday. Hamad, who is on an official visit to Morocco to attend a conference on the impact of regional changes, discussed with Bin Keiran means of supporting the Palestine people and cause.
Dr. Hamad extended an official invitation to Bin Keiran to visit Gaza on behalf of premier Ismail Haneyya and thanked him for his country’s backing of the Palestinian people.
Dr. Ghazi Hamad, the Palestinian foreign undersecretary, met in Rabat with Moroccan premier Abdulilah Bin Keiran on Wednesday. Hamad, who is on an official visit to Morocco to attend a conference on the impact of regional changes, discussed with Bin Keiran means of supporting the Palestine people and cause.
Dr. Hamad extended an official invitation to Bin Keiran to visit Gaza on behalf of premier Ismail Haneyya and thanked him for his country’s backing of the Palestinian people.
Prof. Qassem: The PA security forces should be dissolved, not the armed wings
Acclaimed professor of political science Abdul-Sattar Qassem said that the Palestinian authority security apparatuses should be dismantled and not the armed wings of the resistance factions. In a press statement to the Palestinian information center (PIC), Qassem expressed his surprise to hear leaks from the recent inter-Palestinian reconciliation meetings in Cairo that Fatah delegation asked to control the resistance weapons, dissolve Al-Qassam Brigades of Hamas, and preserve the structure of the PA security apparatuses in the West Bank without any change.
The professor stressed the main obstacle to the national reconciliation is the PA security forces in the West Bank and not the resistance armed wings.
He added that the armed wings are there to resist the occupation, while the job of the PA security forces is to serve the occupation and protect its stablitiy.
He also ruled out that Hamas and Fatah could reach a reconciliation agreement in the near future because any agreement not pleasing the Israeli regime would create consequences for the PA.
"If the security apparatuses were terminated, the agreement signed with the occupation would be ended as well and there would be a new security situation resulting in sanctions [against the PA], freezing funds, withdrawing VIP cards, restricting the movement of Abu Mazen (Mahmoud Abbas) and banning his travel," Qassem underlined.
In a related context, delegations of Hamas and Fatah arrived on Wednesday in Cairo to resume talks about the mechanisms for the execution of the last reconciliation agreement that was sponsored by Egypt.
Deputy head of Hamas's political bureau Mousa Abu Marzouk, who heads his Movement's delegation, told the PIC that the two parties would explore in their meetings this week the avenues to implement the reconciliation files.
Abu Marzouk affirmed that Hamas would eliminate all obstacles hindering the achievement of the national unity.
The professor stressed the main obstacle to the national reconciliation is the PA security forces in the West Bank and not the resistance armed wings.
He added that the armed wings are there to resist the occupation, while the job of the PA security forces is to serve the occupation and protect its stablitiy.
He also ruled out that Hamas and Fatah could reach a reconciliation agreement in the near future because any agreement not pleasing the Israeli regime would create consequences for the PA.
"If the security apparatuses were terminated, the agreement signed with the occupation would be ended as well and there would be a new security situation resulting in sanctions [against the PA], freezing funds, withdrawing VIP cards, restricting the movement of Abu Mazen (Mahmoud Abbas) and banning his travel," Qassem underlined.
In a related context, delegations of Hamas and Fatah arrived on Wednesday in Cairo to resume talks about the mechanisms for the execution of the last reconciliation agreement that was sponsored by Egypt.
Deputy head of Hamas's political bureau Mousa Abu Marzouk, who heads his Movement's delegation, told the PIC that the two parties would explore in their meetings this week the avenues to implement the reconciliation files.
Abu Marzouk affirmed that Hamas would eliminate all obstacles hindering the achievement of the national unity.
16 jan 2013
MPs Bardawil and al-Ashqar meet the leadership of PJD party
MPs of the Change and Reform Bloc, Salah Bardawil and Ismail al-Ashqar, met on Tuesday the leadership of Morocco's Justice and Development Party (PJD) during their visit to Morocco. The MPs' visit came in light of their participation in the Conference to Support the implementation of the Palestinian reconciliation under the auspices of the Morocco's Authenticity and Modernity party (PAM).
The Deputies discussed with Rida Khaldun, chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the PJD party, the Palestinian issue and a number of general issues and especially the Palestinian reconciliation file.
The MPs praised the Moroccan positions in general and the PJD's positions in particular in their support to the steadfastness of the Palestinian people, appreciating their solidarity role with the Palestinian people during the recent aggression on the Gaza Strip.
They stressed that the "Palestinian reconciliation is a strategic choice of Hamas", stating that there is a progress in the reconciliation file, revealing that Morocco's visit comes within the framework of supporting the implementation of the Palestinian reconciliation.
For his part, Khaldun stressed that the Palestinian issue is the central issue, which brings together all parties in Morocco.
He confirmed that the Moroccan king and people support the Palestinian cause and the Palestinian reconciliation file, explaining that they will have a practical role in this regard.
The Deputies discussed with Rida Khaldun, chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the PJD party, the Palestinian issue and a number of general issues and especially the Palestinian reconciliation file.
The MPs praised the Moroccan positions in general and the PJD's positions in particular in their support to the steadfastness of the Palestinian people, appreciating their solidarity role with the Palestinian people during the recent aggression on the Gaza Strip.
They stressed that the "Palestinian reconciliation is a strategic choice of Hamas", stating that there is a progress in the reconciliation file, revealing that Morocco's visit comes within the framework of supporting the implementation of the Palestinian reconciliation.
For his part, Khaldun stressed that the Palestinian issue is the central issue, which brings together all parties in Morocco.
He confirmed that the Moroccan king and people support the Palestinian cause and the Palestinian reconciliation file, explaining that they will have a practical role in this regard.
