Hamas: We need peace more than any nation

The organization Hamas said on Mar. 27 that it was prepared for dialogue with the Quartet of international mediators to try to end conflict in the Middle East. "Our people are in need more than any other nation on earth for peace, for security and stability. Our government will not spare any effort to achieve a just peace in the region," Hamas prime minister designate Ismail Haniyeh told the Palestinian Parliament as he presented his governing agenda. "We have never been seekers of war. We have never been callers for terrorism and bloodshed," he said. Speaking of his diplomatic intentions, the Hamas prime minister designate said "our government will be ready for a dialogue with the Quartet committee to look into all ways to end the state of struggle and achieve calm in the region." The Quartet comprises the United States, the European Union, Russia and the United Nations. Haniyeh's statement came a day after stating that Hamas is not interested in a confrontation with Israel. "The government will seek to be open and to have dialogue with all countries, including the European Union, to pursue giving aid to our people and our Authority in order to afford a dignified life to our people," he said. Referring to Israel's economic ban on the Palestinian territories since Hamas' victory in the elections for the Palestinian Legislative Council, Haniyeh said "whoever thinks economic pressure could push our government to succumb or that it could weaken the determination and the steadfastness of our proud people is mistaken." Israel cut off the transfer of millions of dollars of taxes it collects on behalf of the Palestinian Authority and threatened to sever all ties once the Hamas government takes office. "We will protect the right of our people to defend themselves against the occupation," he added.