‘Abbas Demanding Control of Gaza Strip Crossings

Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud ‘Abbas is demanding control of the Gaza Strip crossings, but has encountered opposition from both Israel and Hamas. Prime Minister Olmert rejected the idea, fearing that Palestinian control will allow unchecked smuggling of arms and terrorists. Hamas claims that as the ruling power in the Gaza Strip, it must be involved in controlling the crossings. Egypt has indicated that it will try to mediate an agreement between Hamas and Fatah to share control of the crossings, but such a pact will not answer Israel‘s concerns. The issue is on the docket for Sunday’s talks between ‘Abbas and Olmert.