Region | Palestinian Territories
US resumes aid to Palestinians
The United States lifted its crippling aid embargo on the Palestinian government to bolster moderate President Mahmoud Abbas while isolating Hamas Islamists controlling the Gaza Strip.
- Agencies
- Published: 01:12 June 19, 2007
Washington: The United States lifted its crippling aid embargo on the Palestinian government on Monday to bolster moderate President Mahmoud Abbas while isolating Hamas who control the Gaza Strip.
The resumption of direct American aid came on the eve of talks between President George W. Bush and Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, who has said he will cooperate with Abbas' emergency Cabinet.
Amid an outpouring of international support, Abbas told Bush in a telephone call on Monday that the time had arrived to resume peace talks with Israel. President Bush promised his support.
Hours later, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice announced that the United States would "resume full assistance to the Palestinian government and normal government-to-government contacts."
At a news conference, Rice said the United States would contribute $40 million to help ease the suffering of Palestinians.
More from Palestinian Territories
More from Region
News Editor's choice
-
6,000 cups and counting: Addicted to that tea
This cafeteria in Al Mamzar attracts thousands of customers daily, including the rich and not so rich
-
Swimming pool horror: Twins hospitalised
Twins rushed to hospital after collapsing from chlorine inhalation at swimming pool in their villa
-
Play your cards right with credit card interest
UAE Central Bank plans to cap interest rates, but are you paying thirty-five per cent now?
