Abbas 'approves Arafat autopsy'
Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas has given his permission to exhume the remains of his predecessor Yasser Arafat, a top aide said.
The decision came days after a Swiss institute found elevated traces of a radioactive agent reportedly on Mr Arafat's belongings, reviving speculation the former Palestinian leader was poisoned.
The institute said it needs to test Mr Arafat's remains for conclusive findings, and Mr Abbas has said he is willing to allow an autopsy in principle.
Abbas aide Saeb Erekat said today that Mr Abbas has now given final approval and is inviting the Swiss experts to test the remains. Mr Erekat said "we are on the way to an autopsy".
Earlier today, Mr Arafat's nephew said he does not believe further testing is needed. It was not clear whether the nephew would block an autopsy.
