Tuesday, January 18 2005 13:03 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Ramallah: Palestinian Authority (PA) under its newly elected leader, Mahmoud Abbas, has issued a stern warning to militants, saying it will not tolerate attempts by some groups to harm Palestinian national interests by escalating violence.

PA's National Security Council and cabinet, headed by Abbas, held an emergency meeting and issued instructions to the security forces in Gaza Strip last evening (Jan 17, 2005) to prevent such attempts in a bid to avoid an impending Israeli incursion.

The militant organisations, including ruling Fatah party affiliated Al Aqsa Martyr's Brigade, dismissed the threats vowing to continue their fight against "occupation".

Interior Minister, Hakam Balawi, who is in charge of the security forces, and commanders of all the PA security services, attended the meeting, Palestinian sources said.

The PA also decided to deploy Palestinian policemen near border crossings and in areas close to Jewish settlements to check infiltration.

Prime Minister Ahmed Qurei told reporters after the meeting that anyone who violates the instructions would be punished.

Qorei asserted that the PA was serious in its efforts to end the cycle of violence.

Minister without portfolio, Qadura Fares, said that Abbas has issued "clear instructions" to the security chiefs in the Gaza Strip to prevent all kinds of violence, including attacks against Israel.