Israel accused of conducting 'dirty war'

RAMALLAH, West Bank, July 11 (UPI) -- Hamas officials have denounced actions by Israeli leaders to close Hamas-led establishments in the West Bank, saying Israel is carrying out a "dirty war."

Hamas Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh said Wednesday Israel was taking part in a "dirty war" targeted at Hamas, the Jerusalem Post reported.

He also said the Palestinian Authority is "participating" in Israeli efforts and noted that PA officials in Ramallah have shut down at least 100 West Bank charities because they believed they may have been affiliated with Hamas.

"This is an ugly crime against humanity," Haniyeh said, noting that the majority of establishments helped needy citizens.

Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri asked PA President Mahmoud Abbas to stop his officers from cooperating with Israeli forces in the West Bank.

"This is a conspiracy designed to undermine Hamas and eliminate its presence in the West Bank. But it won't succeed," Abu Zuhri added.