The head of Hamas' political bureau, Khaled Meshaal, has stated that Hamas does not intend to negotiate directly with Israel. This statement came in response to comments made by Moussa Abu Marzouk, a member of the movement's political bureau suggesting direct negotiations were possible.
 Speaking in Tunisia yesterday, Meshaal commented that is it part of Hamas' policy to negitiate with Israel but that a third party would be necessary. On the question of widening internal political divisions, Meshaal said in contrast that no mediator is neccesary in talks between Hamas and Fatah. He declared that Palestinians did not need mediation in order to achieve reconciliation. The two parties coming together could overcome all obstacles, he noted.
Meshaal stated that Hamas will spare no effort in unifying the Palestinian factors. No mediators are neccesary as he assured listeners that negotiation remains possible: "We haven't reached that stage yet."
The Hamas leader denied that a shadow opposition government existed in Gaza under Hamas leadership, although he highlighted that an issue for unity is Fatah not seeing the reality on the ground in Gaza. He said he would welcome government ministers visiting the gaza Strip and taking over land border crossings.