Associates of Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas have started discussing with Israel ways of helping the new Palestinian government in its attempt to counter the anarchy in the West Bank.
New Gov't
Palestinian emergency cabinet sworn in / Ali Waked and AP
Abbas swears in government to replace unity coalition he dismantled after Hamas took control of Gaza by force; Hamas says new government illegal. Palestinian president also issues decree outlawing Hamas' armed groups
According to Palestinian sources, Abbas' aides have asked Israel to assist Salam Fayyad's new cabinet in the battle over public opinion, against Ismail Haniyeh's Hamas government, which is refusing to resign.
Ynet has learned that even before Fatah's last outpost in the Strip was taken over by Hamas, Hajj Ismail Jaber, deputy commander of the Palestinian security forces, began negotiating the issue with Israel.
The talks are aimed at reaching a series of understandings with Israel, including an Israeli commitment to stop hunting down wanted Palestinian suspects, mainly Fatah and al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades members, to refrain from sending IDF forces into West bank cities, as well as arresting activists, except for those defined as "ticking bombs."
The Palestinian security forces in Gaza on their part would commit to act against anyone involved in preparing suicide bombings, as well activists suspected of having ties with Hizbullah or Hamas' military wing. Furthermore, Abbas' forces would pledge to operate against Hamas' special security force, which is expected to try and takeover the West bank as well.
According to PA sources, Jaber and the Israeli officials have already agreed in principle on the issues.
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