EU authorities back President Abbas

European Union authorities today voiced their backing for President Mahmoud Abbas in the conflict with Hamas following the militant group’s takeover of the Gaza Strip.

“The EU presidency once again reiterates its complete support for President Abbas,” Germany, which holds the EU presidency, said in a statement.

“It calls upon all sides to support President Abbas,” Germany said.

EU External Relations Commissioner Benita Ferrero-Waldner called Mr Abbas “the legitimate president of all Palestinians”.

The recent fighting in Gaza left the Palestinian territories effectively split in two. Gaza is now controlled by Hamas, which has close ties to Syria and Iran. The more populous West Bank is dominated by the more moderate Fatah.

On its first day of full rule in Gaza, Hamas announced it was granting amnesty to senior Fatah leaders and signalled it was seeking reconciliation with the defeated forces of Mr Abbas.