Hamas officials meet Europeans

DAMASCUS, Syria, May 1 (UPI) -- A top Hamas leader reportedly told an Arabic newspaper the Islamic militant group's officials have been meeting with European envoys.

Musa Abu Marzouk, deputy head of the Syria-based group's political office, told the al-Hayat, published in London, the contacts were taking place in Damascus and other places, reports the Jerusalem Post.

The Post reported the purpose of the meetings is to ascertain Hamas's actual position and to convince the organization to recognize Israel, accept all agreements signed with it and to end its commitment to violence. A Hamas-led Palestinian government has come under severe financial strains since taking power.

The Post report said Marzouk emphasized Hamas refused to recognize Israel but is willing to discuss issues related to quiet and stability.

The Israel Radio quoted a British Foreign Ministry spokesman that the international community would normalize relations with Hamas if it meets the conditions set for it.