ACTING Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert yesterday ruled out contacts with a Hamas-led Palestinian government until the Islamic group renounces violence, while his defence minister threatened to “liquidate” Hamas militants involved in attacks.

WORLD leaders, uneasy at the prospect of a Hamas-led Palestinian government, immediately exerted pressure on the Islamic militants to recognise Israel and renounce violence.

British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw today urged the Islamic militant group Hamas to renounce violence and recognise Israel following its success in the Palestinian legislative elections.

The Hamas militant group captured a majority of seats in Palestinian legislative elections, according to officials in Hamas and the rival Fatah Party, a shocking victory that could throw Middle East peace prospects into turmoil.

Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon said today that if Hamas militants participate in Palestinian legislative elections, Israel would not hold joint meetings with Palestinians, and would make it difficult for Hamas to campaign freely.

ISRAEL’S Cabinet yesterday approved the release of 400 Palestinian prisoners, a long-overdue gesture Israel had agreed to as part of a Mideast truce package.

Palestinian police released a member of a Hamas rocket squad today, despite a pledge to get tough with those who break a ceasefire with Israel.

Israel will not move forward in the US-backed road map peace plan if Hamas participates in Palestinian legislative elections without disarming, an aide to Prime Minister Ariel Sharon said today.

Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas threatened to use force against anyone who violates a ceasefire with Israel, his toughest warning against Palestinian militants since taking office in January.