Use ballots, not bullets

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas yesterday swore in his emergency cabinet. The composition of the government - with anti-Hamas hawks appointed in key positions - looks confrontational and is poised to take the internal struggle to another level as Hamas has clearly said it will not recognise the presidential measures.

Meanwhile, the war of words and incitement continues unabated. Words like "Mercenaries!" "Assassins!" "Traitors!" "Zionists!" - splashed all over rival TV stations - underline the unprecedented level of hate between the two camps, whose gunbattles have split the Palestinians into two separate entities, with Hamas in control of Gaza and Fatah ruling the West Bank.

Needless to say, things really look ugly. However, experience tells us they have not reached the point of no return. The Arab League is sending a high level team to negotiate a compromise, but it remains the responsibility of the Palestinians to end it all. They have done it before and must make every effort to stop the nonsense; too much is at stake. The ultimate goal of independence is being threatened by the pursuit of small gains.

The majority of Palestinians have voted Hamas into the government and Abbas in the office of the president. Why not consult the people one more time? A popular referendum will be a realistic and practical way to get out of the current deadlock. Both movements claim they have popular support - so let the people decide.

It is time Hamas and Fatah made an example to other Arab parties by choosing the way of the ballot to solve their differences instead of the way of the gun. It would be a good example to follow in Lebanon and Iraq, which both witness somewhat similar situations. It would also save precious lives and keep the dream of independence alive.