Saturday, March 17, 2007

Israel Refuses To Deal With Palestinian Unity Government Again

This just in from CBC News: Israel again rejects Palestinian unity government
As Palestinian politicians convened on Saturday to endorse a new unity cabinet, Israel reiterated that it would not deal with the coalition formed by Fatah and Hamas.

Israel's vice-premier, Shimon Peres, said the international community should stand firm in isolating the Palestinian government.
...

Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh of Hamas presented his government's platform at a parliamentary session held via video link set up in Gaza City and Ramallah. Palestinian leaders cannot meet in one place because of Israeli travel bans.
...

After the speeches, the unity government won a confidence vote in parliament.

After the 83-3 vote was announced, politicians jumped up for a standing ovation. In all, the Palestinian parliament has 132 members, but 41 are in Israeli detention.
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[see also]

Big surprise! US cool on Palestinian government

Lost in the spin: Freed Hamas leader shuns terror tactics