Abbas promises referendum if there's no agreement
In a surprise ultimatum, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas today said he will call a national referendum on accepting a Palestinian state alongside Israel if Hamas does not agree to the idea within 10 days.
The referendum represents a political gamble that could either help resolve the Palestinians’ internal deadlock or lead them deeper into crisis.
Hamas appeared to be divided over the idea of a referendum, with several officials giving their blessing, but others dismissing it as an attempt to undercut the Hamas-led government.
In Gaza, meanwhile, violence erupted again between Fatah and Hamas forces.
A police officer was wounded in the shootout in Gaza City, and the two sides blamed each other for starting it.
Earlier reports that the officer was killed proved to be incorrect.
Amar Duaik, director of the Palestinian election commission, said calling a referendum might not be easy.
He said the parliament would have to pass a referendum law or Abbas would have to issue a presidential decree.
“If there is no agreement (between Hamas and Fatah), I expect to have troubles and differences,” Duaik said.
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