Hamas to launch �more effective attacks� on Israel

The Jerusalem Post (Link) - Khaled Abu Toameh (September 3, 2010)

Thirteen Gaza militant groups have joined forces to launch a wave of attacks against Israel, Reuters reported on Thursday.

Hamas reportedly announced after Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas launched peace talks that the 13 groups would step up �more effective attacks� against Israel.

When asked if the renewed attacks would include suicide bombings, the Hamas spokesman reportedly answered: �All options are open.�

Also on Thursday, Hamas condemned the launch of direct talks, saying its goal is to �liquidate� the Palestinian cause, and accusing Abbas of allowing Israel to build settlements in the West Bank and denying refugees� �right of return.�

Earlier this week, Hamas claimed responsibility for two attacks on Israelis: one, which killed four, and another that injured two. Both were shootings that took place in the West Bank.

Hamas Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh said that Abbas does not have a mandate to negotiate with Israel, and the Palestinians would not recognize any agreement.