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Abbas Urges Hamas to Renounce Violence
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http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=1238226:3919ACA But Palestinian
president also warned  Israel that taking a unilateral approach to
peacemaking would fuel extremism





Mahmoud Abbas Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has urged the ruling
Hamas movement to renounce violence and respect peace deals with
Israel, while also warning Israel that taking a unilateral approach to
peace-making would fuel extremism.

Mr. Abbas made his comments in a recorded speech broadcast Monday
marking the anniversary of the founding of the state of Israel - a day
Palestinians call "Nakba," or "the great catastrophe."

He says Palestinians should not be satisfied with fiery speeches and
slogans that could bring international isolation. The Palestinian
leader said such rhetoric reinforces Israel's contention that there is
no Palestinian partner in peace efforts.

He also called on the Jewish state to release tax revenues it collects
on the Palestinians' behalf that have been withheld since Hamas gained
political power.

Mr. Abbas recorded the message before his trip to Russia and other
European states to seek political and financial support for the
Palestinian Authority.


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