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Meshaal denies Hamas gets military aid from Iran
One year after the violent split between Hamas and Fatah, talks are once again underway. Mohamed Abdel Azim travelled to Damascus for EuroNews to talk to Hamas exiled leader Khaled Meshall on the major issues affecting the group. They discussed its links with other countries and the role of the European Union in the region. Here is our exclusive interview with Khaled Meshaal. EuroNews: Do you agree with the idea of freeing Israeli soldiers and talking to Fatah? Khaled Meshall: Concerning the soldier Gilad Shalit, as you know its Olmert who prevents negotiations. Its Olmert and his entourage who keep putting up road blocks. He doesnt respond to our demands. We have agreed to the Egyptian mediation plan and when we get into naming prisoners to free Israel refuses to talk. When Israel accepts our demands, we will free the Israeli soldiers we have as soon as we can. We have no interest in keeping him. EuroNews: How true is it secret contacts exist between Israel and Hamas? Khaled Meshall: We dont have secret contacts and we dont have contacts with the enemy Israel. Euronews: Is it imaginable that direct or indirect negotiations between Hamas and Israel could take place at the moment? Khaled Meshall: The conflict with Israel has to be managed in a global way and when Israel becomes mature and accepts the rights of the Palestinians, then we will decide to adapt our position. EuroNews: What of the negotiations already initiated between Mahmoud Abbas and Ehud Olmert? Khaled Meshall: Olmert issues vetoes on the 1967 borders, on Jerusalem, on the demolition of the occupied settlements and on the right of our return. What is the value in negotiating in the face of all these red lines? EuroNews: The value being to test the willingness to create a Palestinian state? Khaled Meshall: You saw Bushs recent visit to the region and his speech at the Knesset. He slapped down the region and aligned himself with Israel. Although Olmert negotiates with Abbas, its to distance himself from internal problems and make Israels public image more attractive. EuroNews: Is it possible in the future that Hamas could entertain negotiations with Israel? Khaled Meshall: Israel has to announce in a clear way that it accepts a Palestinian state on the 1967 borders, including Jerusalem without settlements, and the right of refugees to return. Without this, we will never agree. EuroNews: In that case, would you be ready to recognise Israel? Khaled Meshall: No, the question of recognition is out. I have already said we would be able to sign a truce. There are other formulas, but we have already stated recognition is not one. Posted by: Fred 2008-06-25 |
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