Abbas: Disarm terror groups
PA chairman orders security forces to prepare for disarming factions in wake of Monday’s Gaza blast; most complex task: Disarming Hamas members
The move follows an explosion in a residential building in Gaza two days ago that left four people dead and another thirty wounded.
“The implementation of this task will take a long time, but the chairman expressed his determination (to ensure) not even one weapon would be found in the Strip expect arms held by security officers,” the source said.
“According to the reports received by Abu-Mazen (Abbas,) the most difficult task would be removing weapons from the hands of Hamas, because the (Fatah’s) al-Aqsa Brigades will eventually join the security forces and receive a permit for their weapons,” he said.
“The most appropriate time for taking away Hamas’ weapons would be right after the elections for the legislative council,” another source added.
Meanwhile, Hamas said it is determined to keep its weapons because the Gaza withdrawal “does not constitute the end of the conflict.”
“The continued occupation of the West Bank constitutes 94 percent of Palestinian territory occupied in 1967, an area where Sharon said he intends to reinforce settlement blocs,” the Hamas said.
Hamas says Israel behind blast
The huge explosion in Gaza Monday that raised Abbas’ ire destroyed at least one building and left women and children wounded. Security sources in Gaza said Hamas members resided in the building where the explosion took place. Sources estimated the blast was a result of a terrorist “work accident.”
A Palestinian spokesman said the blast was “mysterious” and vowed security forces will look into the explosion’s circumstances.
However, the Hamas was quick to blame Israel for the explosion and said the Air Force launched missiles at the building.
