The Palestinians’ Hamas-dominated parliament today mobilised to try to block President Mahmoud Abbas’ efforts to hold a national referendum on a proposal that would implicitly recognise Israel’s right to exist.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is embarking on the first ever visit by a Kremlin leader to the Jewish state in an historic bid to cement improving relations after decades of Soviet-era strain.

Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon plans to present his full Gaza withdrawal plan to his recalcitrant cabinet next week, and said today it will be approved.