According to a report appearing in the London-based English language el-Shark el-Awsat newspaper, relations between Hamas’ leadership and PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen) have never been worse. The newspaper reports that contrary to media reports of a mending of fences between Gaza and Ramallah, the opposite is true, calling today’s reality “The worst since Hamas’ takeover of Gaza in 2007”.

The report adds that Hamas officials close to Khalid Meshal insist talks will not resume until Fatah negotiator Azzam el-Ahmed apologies, which Fatah officials signal will not take place soon. Hamas also cites that Abu Mazen does not seem the slightest bit bothered by the fact that US President Barak Obama during this week’s 48-hour visit will be stopping in Israel and Ramallah, but not Gaza.

The newspaper adds that if the two organizations do not discuss the formation of a coalition government, the talks towards peace between them are futile. At present, Abu Mazen is expected to announce extending his government’s tenure for an additional three months, at which time elections will take place. Hamas however says it will not take part in elections until they reach an agreement with Fatah on “all matters of controversy”.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)