Fatah wants Salam Fayyad to head the new unity government in exchange for other key ministries to be led by Hamas. Leaders hope to avoid US and EU opposition with the Fayyad pick
An informed Palestinian official told Ahram Online that Fatah and Hamas movements are discussing a new deal that would reappoint Salam Fayyad as a prime minister of the new unity government.
The official, who asked not to be named, said that deal would give the prime minister post to Fatah to reappoint Fayyad; in return Hamas would take Finance, Education and Endowment ministries.
He added President Mahmoud Abbas insists on appointing Fayyad as prime minister, despite many leaders in Fatah rejecting Abbas' choice.
“Abbas said many times he would stand against any new government that would give the international community reason to impose financial blockade on the Palestinian Authority,” said the Palestininan source.
He added that Abbas is afraid Israel could mobilize the US and EU against any government not headed by Fayyad.
The official indicated that Hamas has not reached a decision yet about the proposed deal.
“Hamas leader abroad liked the idea while some leaders in Gaza still against giving Fayyad the prime minister post, but I think they will agree in the end,” he said.
The source also revealed that President Abbas has the support of the Egyptian mediator on reappointing Fayyad.
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