Palestinian PM says no govt peace talks with Israel

GAZA, Sep 12 (Reuters) Palestinian Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh of Hamas today poured cold water on any hopes a new unity government might seek peace talks with Israel.

Asked by Reuters if the new administration would negotiate with the Jewish state, Haniyeh said: ''No. Negotiations have to do with the PLO and not with the government.'' Haniyeh, who is likely to head the new government, has previously said he would not object to President Mahmoud Abbas negotiating with Israel. A spokesman for the current Hamas government reiterated that position earlier today.

REUTERS SAM BD1606