Hamas has urged Palestinians to abandon peace efforts

The Islamist group Hamas has urged Palestinians to abandon peace efforts and launch a new uprising against Israel in response to US President Donald Trump's recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital.


Palestinian factions called for a "Day of Rage" tomorrow following a wave of protest in the West Bank and Gaza brought clashes between Palestinians and Israeli troops.

At least 31 people have been wounded by Israeli army gunfire, according to medics, after protests erupted.

In the West Bank four protesters were hit by live fire, and another 20 by rubber bullets.

 A military spokeswoman said soldiers had used "riot-dispersal gear" against hundreds of rock-throwers.

Seven protesters were wounded by live fire in Gaza, one of whom is in a critical condition, medics have said. Protesters had gathered near the border fence with Israel and threw rocks at soldiers on the other side.

An Israeli military spokeswoman had no immediate comment.

Hamas leader Ismail Haniya has called for a new Palestinian intifada, or uprising, after Mr Trump's declaration.

"This Zionist policy supported by the US cannot be confronted unless we ignite a new intifada," the head of the armed Palestinian Islamist movement that runs Gaza said in a speech.

Worried that the recrimination could disrupt reconciliation efforts, Palestinian Prime Minister Rami Al-Hamdallah and other Fatah delegates arrived in Gaza to meet Hamas.

In cities inside Gaza, thousands of Palestinians rallied, some chanting: "Death to America! Death to the fool Trump!" and burning tyres.
 [rte.ie]
 7/12/17