AMALLAH, West Bank, June 9 (UPI) -- Palestinian Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas says he's committed to ending attacks against Israel, but rejects using violence against Palestinian militants.
Abbas held a news conference Monday, defending himself against Palestinian criticism he's too willing to address Israeli demands and didn't get enough in return during a Mideast summit meeting last week with President Bush and Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon.
But the New York Times said the most pressing issue facing Abbas is how to handle Hamas and other groups opposing the Middle East peace plan, known as the "road map," continuing their attacks against Israel.
Three Palestinian attackers Sunday killed five Israeli soldiers in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.
Abbas said a dialogue is needed to produce a truce and he is prepared to hold talks with Hamas leaders.
Asked what he would do should Hamas refuse, the Times said he replied: "We insist on this dialogue but in the end we will not force anybody to do so."
