Abbas quits top Fatah post as group splits over peace talks with Israel

PALESTINIAN Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas resigned from a top post in the Fatah movement last night, a senior Palestinian source said, reflecting a split within the main Palestinian political group over negotiations with Israel.

Mr Abbas stepped down from the Fatah Central Committee, the official said on condition of anonymity.

A blast on Monday night that killed a 65-year-old Israeli woman in her home was the first suicide bombing since leading Palestinian factions announced a ceasefire 10 days ago in keeping with the new “road map” plan for Middle East peace.