Palestinian President Swears In Hamas-Led Palestinian Cabinet
29 March 2006
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has sworn in a 24-member cabinet dominated by the anti-Israeli militant group Hamas.
Incoming Hamas Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh was the first to take the oath of office Wednesday in Gaza City, swearing on the Koran loyalty to his homeland, holy places and the Palestinian people.
Israel has barred Hamas from traveling between Gaza and the West Bank, forcing Hamas legislators in Ramallah to take the oath of office by video link.
Both the United States and Israel consider Hamas a terrorist organization.
Earlier Wednesday, the U.S. consulate ordered diplomats and contractors to stop dealing with Palestinian ministries under Hamas's control.
A consulate statement said the order permits contacts with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and non-Hamas members of the Palestinian parliament.
Hamas won a large majority in parliament in January elections.
Some information for this report was provided by AFP, AP and Reuters.
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