Unacceptable statement by Hamas

In Norway’s view the statement made on Israel’s existence by the leader of Hamas, Khaled Meshal, is unacceptable.   

Khaled Meshaal’s statement on Israel was made in connection with celebrations in Gaza at the weekend to mark the 25^th anniversary of Hamas. “Khaled Meshaal’s statement is unacceptable, and it does not help to build confidence between the parties or to promote Palestinian unity,” commented Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide. 

“In practice, the remarks made by the leader of Hamas are an indication that he does not accept Israel’s existence. Khaled Meshaal’s statement also directly contradicts the view represented by the Palestinian Authority. Statements of this kind serve only to divide the Palestinians, and they bring us no closer to the goal of an independent Palestinian state,” Mr Eide said. 

“It is essential that Hamas acts responsibly and seeks to reunite the Palestinian people, and that it refrains from the use of violence and commits itself to honouring agreements entered into by the PLO. These are prerequisites if the movement is to be accepted by the international community,” Mr Eide said.

“Norway supports a two-state solution that allows Israel and a future Palestinian state to exist side by side in peace and security. Once again, I call on the parties to the conflict to return to the negotiating table and resume genuine negotiations,” Mr Eide said.