JERUSALEM, Feb. 18 (UPI) -- As the new Hamas-led Palestinian parliament takes power, Israeli leaders said its financial support depends on Hamas' stance on violence.
Acting Prime Minister Ehud Olmert said economic and security measures may be altered or created depending on the new Palestinian Authority leadership's position on Israel's right to exist, the Times of London reports.
PA President Mahmoud Abbas, a member of the now-minority Fatah Party after losing elections in January, opened the new parliament session with a message encouraging Hamas to continue the peace process the previous government started.
Hamas, considered a terrorist group by Israel, the United States and many European countries, is responsible for at least 50 suicide attacks in Israel and has included the destruction of Israel as part of its mission.
Hamas and supporters consider Israel occupiers of Palestinian land. Hamas inherits a Palestinian government deep in debt exacerbated by $60 million in monthly tax and customs receipts Israel collects but now refuses to release unless Hamas changes its violent tone.
Further sanctions may include closing Palestinian ports and preventing workers from entering Israel to work.
