Snappy newsletters. Simple Facebook sharing. Spirited comments. Sweet features are waiting… GET THEM NOW!

Palestinians' Abbas May Not Seek Reelection

Move could be a feint to jump-start peace negotiations

By Harry Kimball,  Newser Staff

Posted Nov 5, 2009 10:16 AM CST

(Newser) – Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas will not seek reelection next year, insiders say. Abbas has seen his credibility with Palestinians damaged during peace negotiations with the US and Israel, now stalled. “The president insists on not running in the upcoming election,” an official tells the Guardian, though some believe the move could be brinksmanship designed to bring US pressure on Israel.

Abbas is considered a moderate, and he has proven a somewhat-willing partner in the peace process. He won't return to talks, however, unless Israel halts all new settlements, and the move could be aimed at prodding the US to push Israel on that front. Abbas may make an announcement later today, though some officials say they are still trying to dissuade him. The elections are scheduled for January, though because of the Fatah/Hamas rift they will likely be delayed at least until June.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.   (AP Photo)
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas chairs a meeting of the Fatah party's executive committee in the West Bank city of Ramallah.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas chairs a meeting of the Fatah party's executive committee in the West Bank city of Ramallah.   (AP Photo)
« Prev« Prev | Next »Next » Slideshow
To report an error on this story, notify our editors.
A snapshot of the day's best news stories.
 
COMMENTS
Showing 1 of 1 comment
serfinWI
Nov 5, 2009 6:47 AM CST
Tangible land traded for intangible "peace". Israel already tried this in Gaza when they pulled all the settlers out in 2005. In return, did Israel get the intangible peace, or instead, tangible bombs? Peace is a state of mind. Who trades land for a state of mind?

More Newser Stories

Hamas, Fatah Agree to Unite

Deal in Works to Prevent US-Palestine UN Showdown

Abbas: We're Going for Statehood

Palestinians to Buck US, Seek Statehood

Gaza Militants OK Israel Cease-Fire


NEWS FROM OUR PARTNERS
Other Sites We Like:   24/7 Wall St.   |   Betty Confidential   |   BuzzFeed   |   Cracked   |   Fark   |   Timelines   |   The Frisky   |   Geek Sugar   |   NewsOne