Israel allows shipment of 1,000 rifles to Palestinians

Tel Aviv: Israel has allowed the shipment of at least 1,000 rifles and tens of thousands of bullets to reach Palestinians through Jordan, an official said on Friday.

The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the move was aimed at bolstering the moderate Palestinian government.

He said Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas arranged the transfer last week when they met in August 31.

Palestinian officials were not immediately available for comment.