31 mar 2013
Gaza: National Security Conference calls for activating resistance
Experts and specialists, who have participated in the Palestinian National Security Conference, called for activating and supporting the armed resistance to confront the Israeli occupation. Dr. Mustafa Barghouti, head of the National Initiative, stressed during his speech at the conference on the need to change the balance of power, and said: "What was taken by force can only be restored by force."
"When we talk about changing the balance of power, it means that we have to organize our elements to gather the largest amount of force and energy in the different fields," Barghouti said.
He pointed out that the national project needs a national strategy based on resistance and unity, as well as an international support and a change in the Palestinian internal economic policy.
For his part, the thinker Esmat Seif El Dawla, former adviser to Egyptian President, stated that the role played by the resistance in Palestine, and in particular in Gaza, has a great impact on the details of everyday life.
Professor of political science at An-Najah National University Abdel Sattar Qassem stressed that all the Palestinian uprisings have failed to achieve the goals of the people, and called for supporting the Popular Resistance and boycotting the occupation at all levels, especially the economic one.
He pointed out that the success of the resistance in the West Bank lies in halting the security coordination with the occupation, as well as setting up an independent economy and reducing the external support.
First conference on Palestine's national security opens in Gaza
The first conference on the Palestinian national security kicked off on Saturday under the auspices of the management and politics academy for postgraduate studies and with the participation of Arab figures. "We have come today to debate about the new fait accompli in our region and to see how we can, as sons of Palestine, convey the true picture," the chairman of the conference Waddah Khanfar, former director general of Al-Jazeera network, said in his opening speech.
"Today, all of us will examine the modern historical moment to rebuild what has been torn for one century… in order for Palestine to become once again the compass and the spirit for this Arab movement," Khanfar stated.
For his part, head of the conference media committee Hani Al-Basous said the conference was intended to study scientifically the challenges the Palestinian national security faces and provide strategic insights for the Palestinian decision makers.
Basous added that the themes of the conference would highlight the political and regional shifts and their impact on the Palestinian cause, in addition to Israel's violations in Jerusalem, and would evaluate the experience of governance and resistance in Palestine.
During two days, the conferees will discuss several papers on the Palestinian national security with the participation of chief researcher of Al-Jazeera center for studies Bashir Nafe'ah and former Egyptian advisor Mohamed Seif Addawla.
"When we talk about changing the balance of power, it means that we have to organize our elements to gather the largest amount of force and energy in the different fields," Barghouti said.
He pointed out that the national project needs a national strategy based on resistance and unity, as well as an international support and a change in the Palestinian internal economic policy.
For his part, the thinker Esmat Seif El Dawla, former adviser to Egyptian President, stated that the role played by the resistance in Palestine, and in particular in Gaza, has a great impact on the details of everyday life.
Professor of political science at An-Najah National University Abdel Sattar Qassem stressed that all the Palestinian uprisings have failed to achieve the goals of the people, and called for supporting the Popular Resistance and boycotting the occupation at all levels, especially the economic one.
He pointed out that the success of the resistance in the West Bank lies in halting the security coordination with the occupation, as well as setting up an independent economy and reducing the external support.
First conference on Palestine's national security opens in Gaza
The first conference on the Palestinian national security kicked off on Saturday under the auspices of the management and politics academy for postgraduate studies and with the participation of Arab figures. "We have come today to debate about the new fait accompli in our region and to see how we can, as sons of Palestine, convey the true picture," the chairman of the conference Waddah Khanfar, former director general of Al-Jazeera network, said in his opening speech.
"Today, all of us will examine the modern historical moment to rebuild what has been torn for one century… in order for Palestine to become once again the compass and the spirit for this Arab movement," Khanfar stated.
For his part, head of the conference media committee Hani Al-Basous said the conference was intended to study scientifically the challenges the Palestinian national security faces and provide strategic insights for the Palestinian decision makers.
Basous added that the themes of the conference would highlight the political and regional shifts and their impact on the Palestinian cause, in addition to Israel's violations in Jerusalem, and would evaluate the experience of governance and resistance in Palestine.
During two days, the conferees will discuss several papers on the Palestinian national security with the participation of chief researcher of Al-Jazeera center for studies Bashir Nafe'ah and former Egyptian advisor Mohamed Seif Addawla.
PLC receives Egyptian delegation
Dr. Ahmed Bahar, the First Deputy Speaker of the Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC), received on Saturday the delegation of the Egyptian "Gaza fans" convoy, composed of businessmen, doctors, and engineers, at the PLC headquarters in Gaza. Bahar praised the Egyptian official and popular positions towards the Palestinian cause and in particular President Mohamed Morsi's supportive positions to the Palestinian people's rights, appreciating the Egyptian efforts in support of the Palestinian cause since the first moment of the Egyptian revolution.
Bahar pointed out to the Egyptian successive solidarity visits to Gaza, saying that it represents a direct message to the occupation that Egypt is supporting the Palestinian people until gaining their freedom and stability.
"Egypt today is not the Egypt of yesterday", said Bahar "the declaration of al-Furqan war on Gaza was from Cairo, while the declaration of victory of the recent aggression was from Cairo thanks to President Morsi's efforts.
For his part, the head of the Egyptian delegation, Wael Al-Ansari, confirmed that Egypt attaches great importance to Gaza and Palestine, stressing that Palestine is part of the doctrine of the Arab and Islamic nation.
He added that the Egyptian visits to Gaza will continue until the liberation of all Palestine and al-Aqsa Mosque, stressing the need to complete a practical program to support the Palestinian people of Gaza.
The Palestinian MPs praised Egypt's great role in support of the Palestinian cause and rights in the regional and international forums.
Bahar pointed out to the Egyptian successive solidarity visits to Gaza, saying that it represents a direct message to the occupation that Egypt is supporting the Palestinian people until gaining their freedom and stability.
"Egypt today is not the Egypt of yesterday", said Bahar "the declaration of al-Furqan war on Gaza was from Cairo, while the declaration of victory of the recent aggression was from Cairo thanks to President Morsi's efforts.
For his part, the head of the Egyptian delegation, Wael Al-Ansari, confirmed that Egypt attaches great importance to Gaza and Palestine, stressing that Palestine is part of the doctrine of the Arab and Islamic nation.
He added that the Egyptian visits to Gaza will continue until the liberation of all Palestine and al-Aqsa Mosque, stressing the need to complete a practical program to support the Palestinian people of Gaza.
The Palestinian MPs praised Egypt's great role in support of the Palestinian cause and rights in the regional and international forums.
30 mar 2013
Presidency Resembles Settlements to Mines
Ongoing Israeli settlement activity in the West Bank along with the Apartheid Wall and settler terrorism are mines that threaten the entire region, according to a statement issued Saturday on the occasion of Land Day. It said “the halt in the peace process and absence of a horizon due to Israel’s persistence with its settlement activity will undermine chances for the two-state solution and will sooner or later lead to an explosion.”
The presidency called on the international organizations, especially the United Nations, to immediately intervene to enforce resolutions that deemed settlements as illegal and a violation of all conventions.
It said, “Settlement activity, which is tearing apart our land and uses 37% of the West Bank land for settlement expansion, is threatening not only our legal right to establish our state on the land occupied in 1967, but also our future, our national existence and our right to live on the land of our ancestors.”
It stressed that it will not hesitate to resort to international organizations to practice its lawful right to stop settlement expansion.
The presidency called on the international organizations, especially the United Nations, to immediately intervene to enforce resolutions that deemed settlements as illegal and a violation of all conventions.
It said, “Settlement activity, which is tearing apart our land and uses 37% of the West Bank land for settlement expansion, is threatening not only our legal right to establish our state on the land occupied in 1967, but also our future, our national existence and our right to live on the land of our ancestors.”
It stressed that it will not hesitate to resort to international organizations to practice its lawful right to stop settlement expansion.
Hamas: The resistance is the strategic option for the Palestinians
The Hamas Movement stressed that the resistance of the Israeli occupation would remain the strategic option for the Palestinian people in their struggle to restore their usurped rights and liberate their land. "Wagering on any strategy other than the resistance is like chasing a mirage and our people will gain nothing from it except more concessions and compromises," Hamas stated in a press release on the 37th anniversary of the Palestinian land day.
"We will not relinquish or give up an inch of the historical land of Palestine, and the Palestinian people will continue to hold on to their land from the river to the sea while the occupation's plans will fail to change the reality and obliterate the Islamic landmarks and holy sites," the Movement highlighted.
It reiterated its rejection of all alternative homeland plans and highlighted the inalienable right of the Palestinian refugees to return to their cities and villages which they were expelled from.
For its part, the refugee affairs office of Hamas stated that the Palestinian people has the right to stay in their land and restore all the Palestinian territories that were occupied in 1948 and 1967, and the Israelis have no right to expel the Palestinian natives from their own land and property.
"The popular uprising that our people in the 1948 occupied lands carried out on March 30, 1976 confirms their absolute rejection of the Zionist schemes aimed at stealing and Judaizing their lands," the refugee affairs office underlined.
It said that despite the importance of the armed resistance, this occasion has set a new stage of confrontation against the Israeli occupation through the popular uprising.
"We will not relinquish or give up an inch of the historical land of Palestine, and the Palestinian people will continue to hold on to their land from the river to the sea while the occupation's plans will fail to change the reality and obliterate the Islamic landmarks and holy sites," the Movement highlighted.
It reiterated its rejection of all alternative homeland plans and highlighted the inalienable right of the Palestinian refugees to return to their cities and villages which they were expelled from.
For its part, the refugee affairs office of Hamas stated that the Palestinian people has the right to stay in their land and restore all the Palestinian territories that were occupied in 1948 and 1967, and the Israelis have no right to expel the Palestinian natives from their own land and property.
"The popular uprising that our people in the 1948 occupied lands carried out on March 30, 1976 confirms their absolute rejection of the Zionist schemes aimed at stealing and Judaizing their lands," the refugee affairs office underlined.
It said that despite the importance of the armed resistance, this occasion has set a new stage of confrontation against the Israeli occupation through the popular uprising.
Abu Zuhri: We cherish our land and refuse alternative homeland
Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri said on Saturday that the Palestinians in Gaza cherish their land and that the Egyptian Sinai peninsula will never be an alternative homeland for them.
Abu Zuhri said that the allegations claiming that Palestinians in Gaza want to seize part of the Sinai are trying to falsify the truth and to change facts.
He noted in a speech he delivered on behalf of the national and Islamic factions in Gaza during a march on the occasion of Land Day in the northern Gaza Strip that the march was organized "at the northern gate in order to say that it is the real gateway to our land."
Hamas spokesman asserted that the Palestinians are proud of their land and refuse to take any part of the land of Sinai as an alternative homeland.
The Hamas leader called on the Palestinian people and the national and Islamic forces to continue efforts to achieve unity.
He also stressed the futility of negotiations, and called for adhering to the option of resistance as the only way to confront the occupier and liberate the land.
Abu Zuhri said that the allegations claiming that Palestinians in Gaza want to seize part of the Sinai are trying to falsify the truth and to change facts.
He noted in a speech he delivered on behalf of the national and Islamic factions in Gaza during a march on the occasion of Land Day in the northern Gaza Strip that the march was organized "at the northern gate in order to say that it is the real gateway to our land."
Hamas spokesman asserted that the Palestinians are proud of their land and refuse to take any part of the land of Sinai as an alternative homeland.
The Hamas leader called on the Palestinian people and the national and Islamic forces to continue efforts to achieve unity.
He also stressed the futility of negotiations, and called for adhering to the option of resistance as the only way to confront the occupier and liberate the land.
Premier Haneyya leaves for Cairo
Palestinian premier in Gaza Ismail Haneyya left the coastal enclave on Saturday en route to Cairo on a few days visit to Egypt.
Taher Al-Nunu, the government’s spokesman, told the PIC that Haneyya would discuss a number of issues with Egyptian officials.
He said that the most prominent among those issues would be the reconciliation, the prisoners, strengthening bilateral relations, and Israeli violations of the calm agreement.
Taher Al-Nunu, the government’s spokesman, told the PIC that Haneyya would discuss a number of issues with Egyptian officials.
He said that the most prominent among those issues would be the reconciliation, the prisoners, strengthening bilateral relations, and Israeli violations of the calm agreement.
Haneyya: The Palestinians will never waive their land
Palestinian premier Ismail Haneyya reiterated on the occasion of the land day that the Palestinian people would never give up or compromise on their land, stressing that the land is the core of the conflict with the Israeli occupation.
"The revolution of the land day in 1976 was the first uprising carried out by the Palestinian people in the 1948 occupied lands against the occupation and its land theft policies, and it broke out after the occupation stole about 21,000 dunums of land in Galilee," premier Haneyya stated in his khutba (sermon) on Friday.
"The events then were a milestone in the history of the conflict with the occupation, where six martyrs died in a scene that emphasized their role in protecting the land and the identity and that there is no future for the occupation on the land of Palestine," the premier said.
"We emphasize that the land of Palestine is Arab and Islamic land that can never be waived, neglected or compromised on, and that the land day is one of the momentous landmarks in the history of our struggle and resistance for the land of Palestine and the holy sites," he added.
"The revolution of the land day in 1976 was the first uprising carried out by the Palestinian people in the 1948 occupied lands against the occupation and its land theft policies, and it broke out after the occupation stole about 21,000 dunums of land in Galilee," premier Haneyya stated in his khutba (sermon) on Friday.
"The events then were a milestone in the history of the conflict with the occupation, where six martyrs died in a scene that emphasized their role in protecting the land and the identity and that there is no future for the occupation on the land of Palestine," the premier said.
"We emphasize that the land of Palestine is Arab and Islamic land that can never be waived, neglected or compromised on, and that the land day is one of the momentous landmarks in the history of our struggle and resistance for the land of Palestine and the holy sites," he added.
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Iran’s envoy urges UN action against Israeli regime
Mohammad Khazaei
Iranian Ambassador to the United Nations Mohammad Khazaei has called on the UN Security Council to take action against the Israeli regime’s atrocities and to oblige Tel Aviv to abide by international law, Press TV reports. Khazaei, who also serves as the chairman of the coordination center of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), met with UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon and the Security Council president on Thursday. During the meeting, the Iranian envoy pressed for more practical steps on the part of the UN to make the Israeli regime accountable for its actions against the Palestinian population in the Gaza Strip and other Palestinian territories. |
“From a regime that has been created by pressure and is taking the lands of people and also killing people, you cannot expect more than this. That is a problem… We need more action to take place by the United Nations Security Council against Israel’s crimes against humanity as well as the Palestinians,” Khazaei said.
The Tel Aviv regime has increased its illegal settlement expansion following an upgrade of Palestine’s status at the UN to a non-member observer state on November 29, 2012.
The Israeli regime plans to build more than 5,000 new settler units in East al-Quds, despite objections from the international community.
More than half a million Israelis live in over 120 settlements built since the 1967 Israeli occupation of the West Bank and East al-Quds. Much of the international community considers the settlements illegal.
In January, the United Nations called on the Israeli regime to cease all its settlement activities without preconditions in compliance with article 49 of the Fourth Geneva Convention. However, Tel Aviv has remained defiant.
On December 19, 2012, the UN secretary general warned that Tel Aviv’s continued settlement activities in the occupied Palestinian territories could inflict “an almost fatal blow” to future talks between Palestinians and Israelis.
The Tel Aviv regime has increased its illegal settlement expansion following an upgrade of Palestine’s status at the UN to a non-member observer state on November 29, 2012.
The Israeli regime plans to build more than 5,000 new settler units in East al-Quds, despite objections from the international community.
More than half a million Israelis live in over 120 settlements built since the 1967 Israeli occupation of the West Bank and East al-Quds. Much of the international community considers the settlements illegal.
In January, the United Nations called on the Israeli regime to cease all its settlement activities without preconditions in compliance with article 49 of the Fourth Geneva Convention. However, Tel Aviv has remained defiant.
On December 19, 2012, the UN secretary general warned that Tel Aviv’s continued settlement activities in the occupied Palestinian territories could inflict “an almost fatal blow” to future talks between Palestinians and Israelis.
Palestinians Mark Land Day
37 years have passed since Israel illegally decided to steal, and stole, thousands of Dunams of Palestinian lands, especially in the Galilee in 1976, and the Palestinians in historic Palestine declared a massive strike to protest the illegal Israeli decision before Israeli tanks rolled into Arab villages, reoccupying them, and killing six Palestinians in addition to injuring dozens of Palestinians.
Land Day became a symbol of steadfastness and nonviolent resistance against the illegal Israeli occupation of Palestine, and against Israel’s ongoing illegal confiscation of Palestinian lands and orchards in different parts of Palestine, not only in the 1948 territories, but also in the West Bank, the Gaza Strip and occupied Jerusalem.
Following the illegal Israeli decision in 1976, Palestinians in historic Palestine declared a strike, and held massive nonviolent protests before being faced with brutal Israeli military force in different Arab towns and villages.
The outcome of the Israeli military violence back then led to the death of six Palestinians, four were killed by Israeli military fire, and two were killed by Israeli Police fire, dozens were wounded and the Police and the army kidnapped hundreds.
The Palestinians demanded Israel to form an investigation committee, especially since those killed and injured are considered Arab-Israeli citizens but the demands were met with rejection as Israel claimed that its army and police were facing “hostilities from the Palestinians”.
March 30 1976 became a symbol of steadfastness in every part of occupied Palestine, a day of protests and marches, and day where the Palestinians in Palestine and in exile, in their refugee camps and villages, reaffirm their steadfastness and their determination to achieve their internationally guaranteed rights in their occupied homeland.
March 30 became a day of “civil disobedience”, legal and legitimate disobedience to an occupation that stole the land, displaced the indigenous Palestinians people in the historic land of Palestine.
The Palestinians are still losing their lands and livelihood, while Israel is still stealing Palestinian lands and orchards, to build the illegal and illegitimate Annexation Wall, a Wall of apartheid that does not only separate the Palestinians from each other, but also separates the villages from their farmlands and orchards, from their livelihood and daily bread, a Wall and settlements that led to the illegal confiscation and isolation of thousands of Dunams of Palestinians lands and orchards.
This day became a day that brings all Palestinians together to declare their rejection to the illegitimate Israeli policies of land theft, and policies of illegal occupation that violates all principles of human rights, and violates numerous resolutions by the United Nations, its Security Council and its General Assembly.
Land Day became a symbol of steadfastness and nonviolent resistance against the illegal Israeli occupation of Palestine, and against Israel’s ongoing illegal confiscation of Palestinian lands and orchards in different parts of Palestine, not only in the 1948 territories, but also in the West Bank, the Gaza Strip and occupied Jerusalem.
Following the illegal Israeli decision in 1976, Palestinians in historic Palestine declared a strike, and held massive nonviolent protests before being faced with brutal Israeli military force in different Arab towns and villages.
The outcome of the Israeli military violence back then led to the death of six Palestinians, four were killed by Israeli military fire, and two were killed by Israeli Police fire, dozens were wounded and the Police and the army kidnapped hundreds.
The Palestinians demanded Israel to form an investigation committee, especially since those killed and injured are considered Arab-Israeli citizens but the demands were met with rejection as Israel claimed that its army and police were facing “hostilities from the Palestinians”.
March 30 1976 became a symbol of steadfastness in every part of occupied Palestine, a day of protests and marches, and day where the Palestinians in Palestine and in exile, in their refugee camps and villages, reaffirm their steadfastness and their determination to achieve their internationally guaranteed rights in their occupied homeland.
March 30 became a day of “civil disobedience”, legal and legitimate disobedience to an occupation that stole the land, displaced the indigenous Palestinians people in the historic land of Palestine.
The Palestinians are still losing their lands and livelihood, while Israel is still stealing Palestinian lands and orchards, to build the illegal and illegitimate Annexation Wall, a Wall of apartheid that does not only separate the Palestinians from each other, but also separates the villages from their farmlands and orchards, from their livelihood and daily bread, a Wall and settlements that led to the illegal confiscation and isolation of thousands of Dunams of Palestinians lands and orchards.
This day became a day that brings all Palestinians together to declare their rejection to the illegitimate Israeli policies of land theft, and policies of illegal occupation that violates all principles of human rights, and violates numerous resolutions by the United Nations, its Security Council and its General Assembly.
29 mar 2013
Haniyeh's adviser calls for implementing Qatar's proposal for reconciliation
The adviser of Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh, Issa Nashar, called to accelerate efforts to implement the proposal of the Emir of Qatar to hold an Arab mini-summit in Cairo to complete the Palestinian reconciliation. "We trust and appreciate the Qatari and Egyptian role and efforts, Nashar told Quds press, calling for responding to Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani's invitation as soon as possible.
He explained that the Palestinian government in Gaza and Hamas movement work to implement reconciliation as a strategic option according to Doha and Cairo agreements.
He called on the PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas and Fatah movement to implement what has been agreed upon.
Nashar added that Hamas movement trusts and respects its people and it is not afraid of elections as being promoted by some parties.
Emir of Qatar, who headed the 24th Arab summit, had suggested on Tuesday to hold a mini-Arab summit in Cairo soon with the participation of Arab countries, and Hamas and Fatah movements in order to implement the Palestinian national reconciliation.
He explained that the Palestinian government in Gaza and Hamas movement work to implement reconciliation as a strategic option according to Doha and Cairo agreements.
He called on the PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas and Fatah movement to implement what has been agreed upon.
Nashar added that Hamas movement trusts and respects its people and it is not afraid of elections as being promoted by some parties.
Emir of Qatar, who headed the 24th Arab summit, had suggested on Tuesday to hold a mini-Arab summit in Cairo soon with the participation of Arab countries, and Hamas and Fatah movements in order to implement the Palestinian national reconciliation.
The Palestinian National Security Conference starts on Saturday in Gaza
The Palestinian National Security Conference is to be launched on Saturday 30 March in Gaza during which political and security prominent figures will participate.
Mohammed Esmat Seif El Dawla, former adviser to Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi, has arrived in Gaza to participate in the conference, Dr. Hani Al-Basos, the head of the conference's media committee told the PIC reporter on Thursday.
Al-Basos added that several Arab figures are expected to reach Gaza to participate in the two-day conference which will be headed by Wadah Khanfar, the ex-Director General of the Aljazeera Network and Dr. Bashir Nafe’ head of the academic committee of the conference.
Al-Basos explained that the conference will deal with several important subjects relating to Palestinian issue; the Palestinian national project, Jerusalem, the Palestinian fundamentals, resistance, and the future of the Palestinian National Authority, as well as the regional political changes and their impact on the Palestinian issue.
He added that the expected recommendations of the conference shall be presented to the decision makers in Gaza and the West bank.
He expressed hope to implement these recommendations which are presented by academic researchers on evaluating national security and political affairs.
Mohammed Esmat Seif El Dawla, former adviser to Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi, has arrived in Gaza to participate in the conference, Dr. Hani Al-Basos, the head of the conference's media committee told the PIC reporter on Thursday.
Al-Basos added that several Arab figures are expected to reach Gaza to participate in the two-day conference which will be headed by Wadah Khanfar, the ex-Director General of the Aljazeera Network and Dr. Bashir Nafe’ head of the academic committee of the conference.
Al-Basos explained that the conference will deal with several important subjects relating to Palestinian issue; the Palestinian national project, Jerusalem, the Palestinian fundamentals, resistance, and the future of the Palestinian National Authority, as well as the regional political changes and their impact on the Palestinian issue.
He added that the expected recommendations of the conference shall be presented to the decision makers in Gaza and the West bank.
He expressed hope to implement these recommendations which are presented by academic researchers on evaluating national security and political affairs.
28 mar 2013
Daylight Saving Time Starts at Midnight
Daylight saving time starts at midnight Thursday in the West Bank and Gaza Strip in accordance with a Cabinet decision.
Clocks will be set forward 60 minutes at midnight.
Israel also starts daylight saving time at 2:00 a.m. Friday.
Clocks will be set forward 60 minutes at midnight.
Israel also starts daylight saving time at 2:00 a.m. Friday.
British academics delegation arrives in Gaza
A British academics delegation arrived in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday evening, a move considered as the second of its kind. The visit is organized by Pal Link Foundation, which seeks to develop the relationships between both Palestinian and British students and academics. The delegation embraces the slogan "United by Education".
The delegation encompasses 27 members, all of whom are British academics and university students, a security source at the crossing told PIC's correspondent.
Pal Link Foundation announced that the visitors seek to check the educational situation in the Gaza Strip under the Israeli siege. They will hold workshops, and deliver training lectures for Palestinian university students.
The visit is due to last up to 9 days, during which the 27-member delegation will be making documentaries for the British university students, when going back to England.
The Foundation stressed that the visit is set to build bridges of cooperation, strengthen the bonds between British and Palestinian academics, and stress on the right of education, which is guaranteed by the international law.
The delegation is scheduled to visit Gaza’s Universities, the Palestinian refugee camps, families of detainees, Islamic & Christian sites and headquarters of international human rights organizations in the Gaza Strip.
The delegation encompasses 27 members, all of whom are British academics and university students, a security source at the crossing told PIC's correspondent.
Pal Link Foundation announced that the visitors seek to check the educational situation in the Gaza Strip under the Israeli siege. They will hold workshops, and deliver training lectures for Palestinian university students.
The visit is due to last up to 9 days, during which the 27-member delegation will be making documentaries for the British university students, when going back to England.
The Foundation stressed that the visit is set to build bridges of cooperation, strengthen the bonds between British and Palestinian academics, and stress on the right of education, which is guaranteed by the international law.
The delegation is scheduled to visit Gaza’s Universities, the Palestinian refugee camps, families of detainees, Islamic & Christian sites and headquarters of international human rights organizations in the Gaza Strip.
Supreme Court Rejects Petition by Mohammad Dahlan
The Supreme Court in its capacity as the Constitutional Court turned down a petition by member of the Palestinian Legislative Council Muhammad Dahlan against a decision by President Mahmoud Abbas to lift his parliamentary immunity.
The court said during a session in Ramallah that it was not in its authority to look into such cases.
It said the decision by Abbas is not a law or legislation for the Court to issue an opinion on it.
One dissent was among the judges.
The court said during a session in Ramallah that it was not in its authority to look into such cases.
It said the decision by Abbas is not a law or legislation for the Court to issue an opinion on it.
One dissent was among the judges.
Gaza gov’t: Erdogan's visit to boost reconciliation
The foreign ministry in the Gaza government has welcomed the visit to the coastal enclave by Turkish premier Recep Tayyip Erdogan. It said in a statement on Thursday that Erdogan’s “historic visit” would enhance Palestinian reconciliation and support the Palestinian people’s just struggle for the establishment of an independent state with Jerusalem as its capital.
The ministry said that it had sent a message of appreciation to Turkey’s president, government, and people over the diplomatic victory that forced Israel to apologize for the attack on the Turkish aid ship Mavi Marmara, offer compensations to families of the victims and lift the siege on Gaza.
It said that the step would contribute in curbing the Israeli war crimes and violation of Palestinian human rights.
Erdogan had announced his intention to visit Gaza next month to meet with the “oppressed Palestinian people” and to make sure that Israel had lifted its blockade on the coastal enclave.
The ministry said that it had sent a message of appreciation to Turkey’s president, government, and people over the diplomatic victory that forced Israel to apologize for the attack on the Turkish aid ship Mavi Marmara, offer compensations to families of the victims and lift the siege on Gaza.
It said that the step would contribute in curbing the Israeli war crimes and violation of Palestinian human rights.
Erdogan had announced his intention to visit Gaza next month to meet with the “oppressed Palestinian people” and to make sure that Israel had lifted its blockade on the coastal enclave.
Mashaal welcomes Qatar's call for mini summit to end Palestinian division
Head of Hamas's political bureau Khaled Mashaal welcomed Qatar's call for holding a mini Arab summit for the Palestinian reconciliation and hailed its initiative for occupied Jerusalem. In a press statement to the local newspaper Al-Quds, Mashaal said that the mini Arab meeting on the Palestinian reconciliation that was suggested by Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani during the Arab summit is likely to be successful and should be supported.
"The conditions are favorable for the reconciliation in all circumstances, and we must protect the reconciliation against any [negative] interference, and God willing, we and Fatah, myself and Abu Mazen will successfully overcome all obstacles to the reconciliation and end this division," Mashaal added.
As for Jerusalem, the Hamas leader said that the Palestinian natives of Jerusalem do not only need financial support but also a comprehensive Arab-Islamic strategy to save their holy city against Judaization.
"The Arab support for Jerusalem in all forms are appreciated, but it is not enough or commensurate with the size of the Zionist crime that is committed every day in Jerusalem," he underscored.
Mashaal also described the Israeli apology for Turkey for the deadly attack on the aid ship Mavi Marmara in 2010 as a big achievement that need further follow-up in order for the Palestinians to dispose of Israel's blockade on Gaza completely.
"The conditions are favorable for the reconciliation in all circumstances, and we must protect the reconciliation against any [negative] interference, and God willing, we and Fatah, myself and Abu Mazen will successfully overcome all obstacles to the reconciliation and end this division," Mashaal added.
As for Jerusalem, the Hamas leader said that the Palestinian natives of Jerusalem do not only need financial support but also a comprehensive Arab-Islamic strategy to save their holy city against Judaization.
"The Arab support for Jerusalem in all forms are appreciated, but it is not enough or commensurate with the size of the Zionist crime that is committed every day in Jerusalem," he underscored.
Mashaal also described the Israeli apology for Turkey for the deadly attack on the aid ship Mavi Marmara in 2010 as a big achievement that need further follow-up in order for the Palestinians to dispose of Israel's blockade on Gaza completely.
Zahhar: Palestinian rivals lead the media campaign in Egypt against Hamas
Member of Hamas's political bureau Mahmoud Al-Zahhar said there are Palestinian rivals fabricating the lies which some Egyptian media outlets have propagated lately against the Hamas Movement.
"We are prisoners to the dictatorship of some unprofessional Egyptian media outlets," Zahhar stated on Wednesday in a meeting on the relations between the Palestinians in Gaza and Egypt.
He stressed that this smear campaign against Hamas is real and cannot be denied, and there are daily false news against the Movement, adding that Hamas and the Egyptian leadership know well who makes and spread these lies.
The Hamas official added that some of the propagators are Palestinians living in Ramallah and the Gaza Strip and their role is to produce news in a certain style against Hamas.
Zahhar also affirmed that the leaked document which was addressed to Mahmoud Abbas by his Palestinian authority intelligence agency about hiring some media outlets in Egypt to distort the image of Hamas is true, and the PA formed a committee to investigate this leakage.
In a related context, the Palestinian factions in Gaza, including Hamas and Fatah, agreed in a meeting on Wednesday to send a delegation representing them to meet with leaders of political parties in Egypt to promote the relations between the two peoples in light of the ferocious media campaign in Egypt against the Palestinians.
Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri told the Palestinian information center (PIC) that the factions met for two hours and discussed in particular the latest media rumors that were spread in Egypt with the aim to tarnish the image of the Palestinian people.
Abu Zuhri, who attended the meeting, said that all the participants in this meeting agreed on the need to protect the historical relations between the Palestinian and Egyptian peoples.
"We are prisoners to the dictatorship of some unprofessional Egyptian media outlets," Zahhar stated on Wednesday in a meeting on the relations between the Palestinians in Gaza and Egypt.
He stressed that this smear campaign against Hamas is real and cannot be denied, and there are daily false news against the Movement, adding that Hamas and the Egyptian leadership know well who makes and spread these lies.
The Hamas official added that some of the propagators are Palestinians living in Ramallah and the Gaza Strip and their role is to produce news in a certain style against Hamas.
Zahhar also affirmed that the leaked document which was addressed to Mahmoud Abbas by his Palestinian authority intelligence agency about hiring some media outlets in Egypt to distort the image of Hamas is true, and the PA formed a committee to investigate this leakage.
In a related context, the Palestinian factions in Gaza, including Hamas and Fatah, agreed in a meeting on Wednesday to send a delegation representing them to meet with leaders of political parties in Egypt to promote the relations between the two peoples in light of the ferocious media campaign in Egypt against the Palestinians.
Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri told the Palestinian information center (PIC) that the factions met for two hours and discussed in particular the latest media rumors that were spread in Egypt with the aim to tarnish the image of the Palestinian people.
Abu Zuhri, who attended the meeting, said that all the participants in this meeting agreed on the need to protect the historical relations between the Palestinian and Egyptian peoples.
27 mar 2013
Palestinian leader freed, several others arrested
Israel on Wednesday freed Nayef Rjoub, 55, from administrative detention lasting for 28 months without charge or trial.
Rajoub, a prominent Palestinian Islamic leader and member of the Palestinian Legislative Council was arrested on 1 January, 2011, on flimsy and vague charges alleging that he constituted a "security risk" to Israel and the Jewish people.
All in all, Rajoub spent more than ten years in Israeli jails and dungeons, mostly on concocted charges stemming from his non-violent opposition to the Israeli occupation.
According to his relatives, it was widely thought that both the PA security apparatus and the Israeli domestic security agency, the Shin Bet, connived to put him behind bars for a period as long as possible "to keep his mouth shut."
Rajoub, brother of the former Palestinian Authority (PA) strongman Jebril Rajoub, is an outstanding critic of the PA.
In 2010, PA security personnel stormed a mosque in the town of Dura, where Rajoub was giving a homily, causing tension in the small town as his family and supporters moved to protect him.
Rajoub, an eloquent orator, is quite popular in the al-Khalil ( Hebron ) district, considered the largest and most populous in occupied Palestine .
Several thousand people gave Rajoub a hero welcome as he arrived home in Dura Wednesday before noon.
Among those who came to congratulate him were Speaker of the Legislative Council, Dr. Aziz Duweik and a number of lawmakers including Azzam Salhab, Nezar Ramdan, Maher Badr, uhammed Abu Juheishe as well as numerous other dignitaries from al-Khalil and surrounding areas.
Decorating his large reception tent were the portraits of Hamas founder and spiritual leader Sheikh Ahmed Yasin as well as numerous portraits and green banners glorifying the Palestinian Islamist movements. Yasin was murdered by the Israeli army in March, 2003.
Others rearrested
A few hours before the release of Rajoub, the Israeli occupation army rounded up several Islamic community leaders and lawmakers in al-Khalil.
The detainees included lawmaker Muhammed Jamal al-Natshe, Abdul Khaleq Natshe, Muhammed Tahseen Shawar, Dr. Amjad al-Hamouri and Jawad al-Jaabari.
The arrests took place in the quiet hours before dawn as Israeli military vehicles roared through the streets of Hebron without any resistance from PA police and security personnel.
All those arrested had been arrested several times in the past and are likely to be held in administrative detention without charge or trial.
A political analyst from Hebron, who asked that his identity remain anonymous, apparently for security reasons, said the arrests were "part of the Israeli policy of persecuting Hamas for refusing to capitulate to Zionism or Jewish Nazism."
"These people have done absolutely nothing wrong, they violated no laws, hurled no stones, and indulged in no incitement. Yet they were nipped out of their homes and families so that the Israelis could prove they are masters and us slaves.
"I challenge the Israeli justice system to bring them before a genuine court of law. But Israel is a jungle of oppression and injustice, not an oasis of justice as Zionist and pro-Zionist media circles in the West keep claiming," said the Political analyst.
Muhammed Rajoub, a graduate student from Dura, opined the arrests were probably a preventive or preemptive measure to forestall a possible resumption of peace talks between Israel and the PA leadership.
It is widely thought that Israel is the impeder of Palestinian reconciliation between Fatah and Hamas.
Israel already vows to arrest all pro-Hamas candidates who may take part in representative elections in the West Bank.
This led many pundits to conclude that it is virtually impossible to organize fair and democratic elections under the Israeli occupation.
The PA leadership is demanding that Hamas and Fatah resolve their 7-year rift through elections.
Hamas is arguing rather convincingly that an election in which Israel has the final say is not worth contesting.
Islamists also argue that in the absence of true guarantees that Israel wouldn't round their candidates, fielding candidates for elections in the West Bank would only be an exercise in futility as Israel would seek to swell the number of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails and detention camps.
There are already between 4000 to 45000 Palestinians languishing in Israeli jails and detention camps, many of them administrative detainees or "hostages" held indefinitely without charge or trial.
The administrative detention policy is considered a sword drawn against Palestinians' throats as inmates have no way to seek redress and prove their innocence.
The Rajoub story epitomizes the life of most Palestinians under the Israeli occupation. According to reliable statistics, more than 800,000 Palestinians have been imprisoned by Israel at least once since 1967.
The number makes up one fourth of the entire Palestinian population of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.
Never the less, the persecution meted out to the Palestinians has utterly failed to make them budge to Israel's will.
According to Israeli Jewish demographer Bella Porgoini, non-Jews already constitute a majority of the population west of the River Jordan.
Israel views the "demographic problem" as the most existential danger facing the Zionist project in Palestine.
Rajoub, a prominent Palestinian Islamic leader and member of the Palestinian Legislative Council was arrested on 1 January, 2011, on flimsy and vague charges alleging that he constituted a "security risk" to Israel and the Jewish people.
All in all, Rajoub spent more than ten years in Israeli jails and dungeons, mostly on concocted charges stemming from his non-violent opposition to the Israeli occupation.
According to his relatives, it was widely thought that both the PA security apparatus and the Israeli domestic security agency, the Shin Bet, connived to put him behind bars for a period as long as possible "to keep his mouth shut."
Rajoub, brother of the former Palestinian Authority (PA) strongman Jebril Rajoub, is an outstanding critic of the PA.
In 2010, PA security personnel stormed a mosque in the town of Dura, where Rajoub was giving a homily, causing tension in the small town as his family and supporters moved to protect him.
Rajoub, an eloquent orator, is quite popular in the al-Khalil ( Hebron ) district, considered the largest and most populous in occupied Palestine .
Several thousand people gave Rajoub a hero welcome as he arrived home in Dura Wednesday before noon.
Among those who came to congratulate him were Speaker of the Legislative Council, Dr. Aziz Duweik and a number of lawmakers including Azzam Salhab, Nezar Ramdan, Maher Badr, uhammed Abu Juheishe as well as numerous other dignitaries from al-Khalil and surrounding areas.
Decorating his large reception tent were the portraits of Hamas founder and spiritual leader Sheikh Ahmed Yasin as well as numerous portraits and green banners glorifying the Palestinian Islamist movements. Yasin was murdered by the Israeli army in March, 2003.
Others rearrested
A few hours before the release of Rajoub, the Israeli occupation army rounded up several Islamic community leaders and lawmakers in al-Khalil.
The detainees included lawmaker Muhammed Jamal al-Natshe, Abdul Khaleq Natshe, Muhammed Tahseen Shawar, Dr. Amjad al-Hamouri and Jawad al-Jaabari.
The arrests took place in the quiet hours before dawn as Israeli military vehicles roared through the streets of Hebron without any resistance from PA police and security personnel.
All those arrested had been arrested several times in the past and are likely to be held in administrative detention without charge or trial.
A political analyst from Hebron, who asked that his identity remain anonymous, apparently for security reasons, said the arrests were "part of the Israeli policy of persecuting Hamas for refusing to capitulate to Zionism or Jewish Nazism."
"These people have done absolutely nothing wrong, they violated no laws, hurled no stones, and indulged in no incitement. Yet they were nipped out of their homes and families so that the Israelis could prove they are masters and us slaves.
"I challenge the Israeli justice system to bring them before a genuine court of law. But Israel is a jungle of oppression and injustice, not an oasis of justice as Zionist and pro-Zionist media circles in the West keep claiming," said the Political analyst.
Muhammed Rajoub, a graduate student from Dura, opined the arrests were probably a preventive or preemptive measure to forestall a possible resumption of peace talks between Israel and the PA leadership.
It is widely thought that Israel is the impeder of Palestinian reconciliation between Fatah and Hamas.
Israel already vows to arrest all pro-Hamas candidates who may take part in representative elections in the West Bank.
This led many pundits to conclude that it is virtually impossible to organize fair and democratic elections under the Israeli occupation.
The PA leadership is demanding that Hamas and Fatah resolve their 7-year rift through elections.
Hamas is arguing rather convincingly that an election in which Israel has the final say is not worth contesting.
Islamists also argue that in the absence of true guarantees that Israel wouldn't round their candidates, fielding candidates for elections in the West Bank would only be an exercise in futility as Israel would seek to swell the number of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails and detention camps.
There are already between 4000 to 45000 Palestinians languishing in Israeli jails and detention camps, many of them administrative detainees or "hostages" held indefinitely without charge or trial.
The administrative detention policy is considered a sword drawn against Palestinians' throats as inmates have no way to seek redress and prove their innocence.
The Rajoub story epitomizes the life of most Palestinians under the Israeli occupation. According to reliable statistics, more than 800,000 Palestinians have been imprisoned by Israel at least once since 1967.
The number makes up one fourth of the entire Palestinian population of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.
Never the less, the persecution meted out to the Palestinians has utterly failed to make them budge to Israel's will.
According to Israeli Jewish demographer Bella Porgoini, non-Jews already constitute a majority of the population west of the River Jordan.
Israel views the "demographic problem" as the most existential danger facing the Zionist project in Palestine.
Palestinian forces in Gaza stress on historical relationships with Egypt
National and Islamic Forces in Gaza stressed on the importance of the role played by Egypt to achieve the Palestinian national reconciliation, demanding Egypt to continue its role until the achievement of unity and the end of division.
The National and Islamic Forces expressed in a statement on Wednesday, following a meeting in the office of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, their appreciation of the Egyptian army and its important role in maintaining the strategic balance with Israel.
They confirmed that the Palestinian people and its national and Islamic forces will never intervene, in any way, in the Egyptian internal affairs.
Participants in the meeting called on Egypt and all Arab States to make more efforts in order to end the Gaza siege and achieve the Palestinian unity.
They have also demanded the Egyptian media to be careful when dealing with the Palestinian issues in general and Gaza issue in particular.
They emphasized that the Egyptians' support for the Palestinian cause is an essential element for the continuation of the Palestinian liberation struggle that aims to achieve Palestinian national rights to self-determination and return and to establish a Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital.
The National and Islamic Forces expressed in a statement on Wednesday, following a meeting in the office of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, their appreciation of the Egyptian army and its important role in maintaining the strategic balance with Israel.
They confirmed that the Palestinian people and its national and Islamic forces will never intervene, in any way, in the Egyptian internal affairs.
Participants in the meeting called on Egypt and all Arab States to make more efforts in order to end the Gaza siege and achieve the Palestinian unity.
They have also demanded the Egyptian media to be careful when dealing with the Palestinian issues in general and Gaza issue in particular.
They emphasized that the Egyptians' support for the Palestinian cause is an essential element for the continuation of the Palestinian liberation struggle that aims to achieve Palestinian national rights to self-determination and return and to establish a Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital.
26 mar 2013
PLO Thanks UNHRC Member States for their Vote
Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) official and lawmaker Hanan Ashrawi thanked the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) member states for their vote in support of resolutions on the Palestinian situation, according to a statement. The UNHRC voted on March 19 nearly unanimously with the exception of the United States to adopt four texts regarding the situation in the occupied State of Palestine, including East Jerusalem.
The texts warned that ongoing Israeli violations of the Fourth Geneva Convention relative to the Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War, particularly as regards the illegal settlement enterprise, constituted "a major obstacle to the establishment of a just and comprehensive peace and to the creation of an independent, viable, sovereign and democratic Palestinian State."
They demanded that Israel respect international human rights and humanitarian law and comply with its legal obligations thereunder. They condemned "all acts of violence, including all acts of terror, provocation, incitement and destruction," and called upon Israel to implement serious measures to prevent and punish acts of violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinian civilians and properties in the Occupied State, including East Jerusalem.
They also demanded that all parties concerned implement and ensure the implementation of the all of the recommendations found in the Report of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission to Investigate the Implications of Israeli settlements on the Civil, Political, Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
"On behalf of the Palestinian people and leadership, I would like to express great appreciation and gratitude to the Council Members who stood up for human rights, peace, and justice in the Occupied State of Palestine," said Ashrawi. "We appreciate your support and value your courage to stand behind your convictions."
Ashrawi stressed that "the United States once again demonstrated a total disregard for Palestinian rights and the requirements of peace," and "willfully voted against the fundamental human rights of people and against the very core values upon which the United States claims to be founded."
She said: "The United States, ostensibly a champion of 'liberty and justice for all', voted against freedom and democracy, and for racism, oppression and apartheid. It voted against justice, and for impunity, in the face of the most egregious violations of international human rights and humanitarian law. It voted against peace. There can be no justification for this double standard."
Ashrawi added, "Rather than respecting human rights and the rule of law, the United States has chosen to politicize them, and to continue to isolate itself with its unwavering support for the illegal policies and practices of the Israeli occupation. It is therefore incumbent upon the international community to stand strong and united in upholding the rule of law and the established principles and values that govern the international system and individual states."
The texts warned that ongoing Israeli violations of the Fourth Geneva Convention relative to the Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War, particularly as regards the illegal settlement enterprise, constituted "a major obstacle to the establishment of a just and comprehensive peace and to the creation of an independent, viable, sovereign and democratic Palestinian State."
They demanded that Israel respect international human rights and humanitarian law and comply with its legal obligations thereunder. They condemned "all acts of violence, including all acts of terror, provocation, incitement and destruction," and called upon Israel to implement serious measures to prevent and punish acts of violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinian civilians and properties in the Occupied State, including East Jerusalem.
They also demanded that all parties concerned implement and ensure the implementation of the all of the recommendations found in the Report of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission to Investigate the Implications of Israeli settlements on the Civil, Political, Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
"On behalf of the Palestinian people and leadership, I would like to express great appreciation and gratitude to the Council Members who stood up for human rights, peace, and justice in the Occupied State of Palestine," said Ashrawi. "We appreciate your support and value your courage to stand behind your convictions."
Ashrawi stressed that "the United States once again demonstrated a total disregard for Palestinian rights and the requirements of peace," and "willfully voted against the fundamental human rights of people and against the very core values upon which the United States claims to be founded."
She said: "The United States, ostensibly a champion of 'liberty and justice for all', voted against freedom and democracy, and for racism, oppression and apartheid. It voted against justice, and for impunity, in the face of the most egregious violations of international human rights and humanitarian law. It voted against peace. There can be no justification for this double standard."
Ashrawi added, "Rather than respecting human rights and the rule of law, the United States has chosen to politicize them, and to continue to isolate itself with its unwavering support for the illegal policies and practices of the Israeli occupation. It is therefore incumbent upon the international community to stand strong and united in upholding the rule of law and the established principles and values that govern the international system and individual states."
Sheikh Hamad: The Palestinian cause is the number one Arab issue
Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani, the chairman of the current Arab summit, stated on Tuesday that the Palestinian cause is the number one Arab issue and its solution is the key to peace and stability in the middle east.
In his speech in the opening session of the summit today, Sheikh Hamad said that Israel should realize that the violence would not bring it security, and its illegal practices against the Palestinians and their property and its violations against the Aqsa Mosque would only spread tension and frustration and hinder the peace process.
Sheikh Hamas also called for holding a mini Arab summit in Cairo as soon as possible in the presence of Palestinian leaders from Hamas and Fatah factions in order to achieve the national reconciliation within a specific time frame.
He suggested the establishment of an Arab fund to support occupied Jerusalem with one billion dollars immediately and declared that Qatar would contribute 250 million dollars to this fund.
The Emir of Qatar also called on the Arab countries to work on ending Israel's blockade on Gaza and to join the efforts to reconstruct it.
In a related context, political advisor to the Palestinian premier Yousuf Rizqa on Tuesday called on the Arab summit to take concrete steps to address Israel's Judaization and settlement activities in Jerusalem and the West Bank as well as the issues of prisoners and refugees.
Rizqa also urged the summit to take decisions protecting the Palestinian refugees who are still in Syria or fled the war to other countries and oblige the host Arab states to deal with them humanly and positively.
He also demanded the Arabs to fulfill their pledges they had made in the economic summit in Kuwait following the Israeli war in 2009 to support Gaza financially.
Hamas welcomes mini Arab summit to conclude reconciliation
Hamas movement welcomed on Tuesday the call by Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani to hold a mini Arab summit in Cairo to conclude Palestinian reconciliation. A statement for Hamas renewed its welcome to any Egyptian, Arab, and Islamic efforts to support and accelerate national reconciliation and to unite the Palestinian home.
Sheikh Hamad proposed at the opening of the Arab summit in Doha the convening of a mini Arab summit in the presence of Hamas and Fatah leaders to accomplish reconciliation in accordance with a given time frame including the formation of a government of independents figures and agreement on a date for elections.
The Emir also proposed the formation of an Arab fund to support Jerusalem with a capital of one billion dollars, and announced that his country would contribute a quarter of billion. He also recommended ending the siege on Gaza and reconstructing the coastal enclave.
In his speech in the opening session of the summit today, Sheikh Hamad said that Israel should realize that the violence would not bring it security, and its illegal practices against the Palestinians and their property and its violations against the Aqsa Mosque would only spread tension and frustration and hinder the peace process.
Sheikh Hamas also called for holding a mini Arab summit in Cairo as soon as possible in the presence of Palestinian leaders from Hamas and Fatah factions in order to achieve the national reconciliation within a specific time frame.
He suggested the establishment of an Arab fund to support occupied Jerusalem with one billion dollars immediately and declared that Qatar would contribute 250 million dollars to this fund.
The Emir of Qatar also called on the Arab countries to work on ending Israel's blockade on Gaza and to join the efforts to reconstruct it.
In a related context, political advisor to the Palestinian premier Yousuf Rizqa on Tuesday called on the Arab summit to take concrete steps to address Israel's Judaization and settlement activities in Jerusalem and the West Bank as well as the issues of prisoners and refugees.
Rizqa also urged the summit to take decisions protecting the Palestinian refugees who are still in Syria or fled the war to other countries and oblige the host Arab states to deal with them humanly and positively.
He also demanded the Arabs to fulfill their pledges they had made in the economic summit in Kuwait following the Israeli war in 2009 to support Gaza financially.
Hamas welcomes mini Arab summit to conclude reconciliation
Hamas movement welcomed on Tuesday the call by Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani to hold a mini Arab summit in Cairo to conclude Palestinian reconciliation. A statement for Hamas renewed its welcome to any Egyptian, Arab, and Islamic efforts to support and accelerate national reconciliation and to unite the Palestinian home.
Sheikh Hamad proposed at the opening of the Arab summit in Doha the convening of a mini Arab summit in the presence of Hamas and Fatah leaders to accomplish reconciliation in accordance with a given time frame including the formation of a government of independents figures and agreement on a date for elections.
The Emir also proposed the formation of an Arab fund to support Jerusalem with a capital of one billion dollars, and announced that his country would contribute a quarter of billion. He also recommended ending the siege on Gaza and reconstructing the coastal enclave.
Abu Zuhri denies the allegations about handing over Salafis to Egypt
Dr. Sami Abu Zuhri, a spokesman for Hamas movement, denied allegations published at Palpress site, affiliated to Mohammed Dahlan, that Hamas intends to hand over Salafis detained in Gaza to Egypt.
Abu Zuhri stressed in a press statement on Monday that no Egyptian authority has charged any Palestinian to talk about handing over Palestinians to Egypt.
The spokesman denounced these allegations that constitute abuses to all the Palestinian people, saying that it is new attempt of some parties in Fatah movement to incite against the Palestinian resistance through dragging it into Egyptian internal affairs.
Abu Zuhri held these parties responsible for the consequences of this campaign on the Palestinian people.
Abu Zuhri stressed in a press statement on Monday that no Egyptian authority has charged any Palestinian to talk about handing over Palestinians to Egypt.
The spokesman denounced these allegations that constitute abuses to all the Palestinian people, saying that it is new attempt of some parties in Fatah movement to incite against the Palestinian resistance through dragging it into Egyptian internal affairs.
Abu Zuhri held these parties responsible for the consequences of this campaign on the Palestinian people.
PA holds secret meetings with Israelis to revive peace process
An informed source revealed that there are meetings nowadays held in camera between top officials from the Palestinian authority (PA) and Israelis to pave the way for the resumption of the peace talks unconditionally. PA chief negotiator Saeb Erekat represents the Palestinian side, while Yitzhak Molcho is his Israeli counterpart, according to the source.
He stated, on condition of anonymity, that the parties agreed to resume the negotiations without preconditions, especially with regard to freezing settlement construction in Jerusalem and the West Bank.
Earlier, Erekat said that president Mahmoud Abbas was doing his best in cooperation with all members of the international quartet to resume the peace process according to the previous agreements with the Israeli side.
The PA took its decision to restart its peace process talks following the visit of US president Barack Obama last week to the occupied Palestinian territories and Jordan.
Obama reiterated during his meetings with Israelis and Palestinians the same old talking points, including the urgency of a two-state solution and the need to end settlement construction.
He stated, on condition of anonymity, that the parties agreed to resume the negotiations without preconditions, especially with regard to freezing settlement construction in Jerusalem and the West Bank.
Earlier, Erekat said that president Mahmoud Abbas was doing his best in cooperation with all members of the international quartet to resume the peace process according to the previous agreements with the Israeli side.
The PA took its decision to restart its peace process talks following the visit of US president Barack Obama last week to the occupied Palestinian territories and Jordan.
Obama reiterated during his meetings with Israelis and Palestinians the same old talking points, including the urgency of a two-state solution and the need to end settlement construction.
