Palestinian Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh was held at the border between Egypt and the Gaza Strip on Thursday, allowed to cross only when he gave up US$35 million in cash he brought with him from his tour of neighbouring countries.
CTV.ca News Staff
Israeli Defence Minister Amir Peretz had earlier instructed the Israel Defence Forces to stop Palestinians entering Gaza via the Rafah border crossing, in order to prevent Haniyeh from crossing with the money.
An agreement was made for Haniyeh to enter Gaza without the cash, which would be transferred directly to the Palestinian treasury so it doesn't go to Hamas. According to Israel Radio, the money would be left in Egypt, and on Friday transferred to the bank account of the Arab League.
Haniyeh made a premature return to Gaza due to rising tensions and increased violence there, after spending the last few weeks on a tour of the Middle East meeting with leaders in an effort to drum up support and money for the cash-strapped Hamas.
Haniyeh told a press conference on Wednesday in Khartum that Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir pledged US$10 million to the Palestinian government and the Palestinian people.
He said Iran also made a pledge to Hamas earlier this week for US$250 million.
Email this thread to someone!
posted 14 December 2006 10:16 AM
