Hamas: Abbas' threats to go to elections reflect his real intentions

Hamas spokesman Fawzi Barhoum commented on Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' statement that he would call for early elections in 2009 if unity talks were not held with Hamas. Barhoum said Abbas was merely maneuvering to stay in office and to continue his talks with Israel. Hamas rejects the negotiations.

"This call by the president reflects his real intention, that he wants the national conciliation talks only to extend his term. So if he cannot achieve this through talks, he wants to get it through pressure by calling for elections," Barhoum said. (Reuters)