Blair aims to revive peace talks

Occupied Jerusalem: British Prime Minister Tony Blair travelled to Tel Aviv late on Sunday from Iraq to hold talks with Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, including Palestinian leaders in the West Bank, and meet some of the 7,000 British troops stationed in the country.

Blair is on a tour of the Middle East to revive peace negotiations.

Islamic group Hamas and Abbas' Fatah faction announced a cease-fire deal late on Sunday shortly after Blair arrived in Israel following continued violence in the Gaza strip.

Blair will hold talks with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in the West Bank and Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert in Jerusalem.

The British Prime Minister said he backs Abbas' call for new elections and praised his efforts, saying he “has worked hard to try and bring about a unity government in which everyone, including Hamas, are represented.''

“But he is also signaling his determination to move on without them if they are unwilling or unable to play a constructive part,'' he added, seeking further international support for the moderate Abbas.

Financial aid for the Palestinians will be one of the top issues discussed by the two leaders on Monday after international sanctions crippled the country.