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State Department Won't Rule Out Aid to a Fatah-Hamas Government
(Washington Post) Jennifer Rubin - There are strong grounds under existing law for banning aid to a Fatah-Hamas government. In 2006, aid was cut once Hamas won the elections. It was reinstated only when the Palestinian Authority separated from Hamas. A State Department official said, "We have seen the press reports and are seeking more information. As we have said before, the United States supports Palestinian reconciliation on terms which promote the cause of peace. To play a constructive role, any Palestinian government must accept the Quartet principles by renouncing violence, accepting past agreements, and recognizing Israel's right to exist." "I note that the current Palestinian government remains in place and our assistance programs continue." As for the future, there was no line-drawing. "If a new Palestinian government is formed, we will assess it based on its policies at that time and will determine the implications for our assistance based on U.S. law."