Prime Minister Haniyeh appeals to international bodies over political prisoners

August 19,2006

Gaza - Ma'an - Palestinian prime minister Ismail Haniyeh has stated that he considers the Israeli kidnapping of his deputy to be an attempt to destroy the Palestinian political system through hindering the work of the legitimate elected government. "It is aimed at political blackmail", said the prime minister.

Haniyeh assured the press that his government will stick to the ideals of national unity and the inalienable rights of citizens. He appealed to international organizations, humanitarian bodies and directly to the secretary general of the UN to endeavour to release the political prisoners held captive by Israel, starting first with PLC speaker Dr Abdul-Aziz Ad-Waik and deputy prime minister Dr Ash-Sha'ir.

"I have earlier warned that the Israelis will try to make up in Palestine for their lost dignity in Lebanon", said Haniyeh.