Haniyeh welcomes efforts toward internal reconciliation

Palestinian Prime Minister in Gaza, Ismail Haniyeh, on Tuesday praised the efforts of the Palestinian factions towards “real internal reconciliation.”

Haniyeh reiterated that with reconciliation, he hoped for that which “protects the rights and principles of the Palestinians while at the same time protecting the choice of resistance.” He affirmed that the choice of resistance is the choice of the Palestinian nation which was expressed at the ballot boxes.

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Haniyeh hoped that the reconciliation would be an “entrance to reinforcing a real popular and political partnership in administering the internal Palestinians issue.” Referring to the PLO, Haniyeh said: “I hope to see a real partnership in reforming and protecting the Palestinian representative body which organises all issues of the Palestinians on the basis of a joint national programme.”

Providing examples of good will gestures that his government had made previously, Haniyeh said: “We allowed Fateh to organise its anniversary. This is a show of real political pluralism. We also allowed the return of Fateh leaders to Gaza in a show of respect for diversity of opinions.”

Haniyeh reiterated that his government does not have any problem with anyone who arms themselves, but condemns those who use their weapons in “illegal undertakings.”