Abbas says he has power to remove Hamas govt

The Palestinian president has given a stern reminder during a fund-raising tour.

Mahmoud Abbas told a television station in Turkey that he has the power to get rid of the government, if he sees fit. He made it clear, however, that he prefers to give it time to make progress. A journalist asked Abbas under what conditions he would consider dismissing the government. The president said: “Basic law gives me the right to remove the government and there is no ambiguity. However, I don’t want to use that right. I repeat though that the law allows me to do it.” The new Hamas government, which is struggling to raise funds, has been facing growing pressure to recognise Israel and renounce violence.

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