Support funds will not be for party, assures Mesha'al

Manama: Khalid Misha'al, Political bureau chief of Hamas, has warned that Israel was wrong in thinking that it could starve Palestinians and make Hamas kneel down.

Misha'al, on a two-day visit to Bahrain, told reporters on Tuesday evening: "Hamas will not shrink from its responsibilities. Israel should fully realise that it cannot have security and occupy our territories at the same time. Our people under Israeli occupation have several open options."

The Palestinian leader, who lives in exile, said the problem lies with the Israelis, who never respond positively to the Arab peace overtures.

"Whenever the Arabs extend their hands seeking peace, the Israelis respond by invading an Arab country or scorning the accord. Not recognising Israel is a natural right because the Palestinians are the victims," he said.

Misha'al called on Arab leaders to translate their support into monetary aid when they meet at the Arab Summit in Khartoum next week.

"The government needs $170 million (about Dh624 million) a month in expenditures, including $115 million (about Dh422 million) for salaries. ... they (Arab leaders) can be assured that the money will not be added to the Hamas budget or misused in any way."