As Fatah and Hamas continue efforts to reach an agreement towards establishing a coalition government, PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) called on Hamas leaders to take a step towards complying with Quartet demands. He stressed that before any significant progress can be made towards actualizing a coalition government, Hamas must recognize Israel’s right to exist.

Hamas officials rejected the Fatah leader’s words, stating the preconditions set by Fatah towards the establishment of a coalition government are unacceptable. Hamas spokesman in Gaza Iman Taha stated “Hamas will never agree to a coalition government [with Fatah] that recognizes Israel”.

The Hamas rejection comes as Egypt continues mediating talks aimed at bringing the factions together, Fatah in Ramallah with Hamas in Gaza, with Hamas aware the Fatah faction enjoys the recognition of the international community.

Abu Mazen made his comments at a Ramallah press conference with European Union Foreign Minister Javier Solana, adding he is hopeful the incoming Israeli administration will also recognize to continue efforts towards a two state solution. He called for a cessation of all construction in “settlements” and the removal of all roadblocks by the IDF.

Abu Mazen also called on the international community to respond to the challenge to rebuild Gaza, stating the funds will be processed by the PA under the watchful eye of the international community, promising total transparency.

Solana expressed hope that the incoming Israeli administration will respect all signed agreements with the PA, calling on the incoming administration to recognize the demands of the Quartet.

The Quartet is composed of the United States, United Nations, European Union and Russia.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)