The United States and Canada have decided to cut all ties with the new Hamas-dominated government, after it was sworn-in on Wednesday, according to reports by news agencies.
American diplomats received a directive on Wednesday, instructing them not to have contacts with Hamas-appointed ministers, whether they are members of the Islamic militant group or not.
The no-contact policy applies therefore not only to Hamas members, but also to independents and technocrats in the new government. Four out of the 24 ministers in the new government are not Hamas members, but rather considered as independents.
Officials said this policy applies to all parts of the U.S. government, as well as to organizations that receive U.S. funding for projects and services in the Palestinian territories.
Nevertheless, it was asserted that contact with Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud ‘Abbas is still permitted, as well as with the 58 non-Hamas members of the Palestinian parliament, officials said.
Canada also suspended all contact and financial aid to the Hamas-led government, announced the country’s Foreign Minister Peter MacKay soon after the government was sworn-in.
“The new government has not addressed the concerns raised by Canada and others over non-violence, the recognition of Israel and acceptance of previous agreements and obligations. As a result, Canada will have no contact with members of the Hamas cabinet and is suspending assistance to the Palestinian Authority,” MacKay said in a statement.