Hamas leader 'ready for partnership'

The top Hamas leader today told Mahmoud Abbas that the Islamic militant group was ready for a political partnership after trouncing the Palestinian leader’s Fatah Party in legislative elections – a shocking upset sure to throw Middle East peacemaking into turmoil.

It was not clear whether Fatah would accept a junior position in a Hamas-led government. Abbas, who favours peace talks with Israel, has said he would resign if he could no longer pursue his agenda. Aides said he planned a major speech tonight.