Hamas introduced its new cabinet Sunday which will be led by their most militant members, creating a hard-line Palestinian government void of moderate voices. This also shows that they are willing to forgo future funding from Western nations, which has totaled over $1 billion a year in humanitarian aid in the past. In other words, by choosing hard-liners who do not recognize Israel's right to exist as a state, they forfeit the aid, as this was one of the requirments the West laid down in order for the PA to continue receiving financial help. Hamas says it plans to replace Western funds with funds from Iran and other Muslim states.
One of the most important positions, the diplomatic position of foreign minister, was given to Mahmoud Zahar. Zahar holds the position that Israel should be destroyed, and also supports the use of suicide bombers.
Another newly elected Hamas legislator, Ahmed Abdel-Aziz Mubarek said, "The international community has to respect the choice of the Palestinian people. The majority of the Palestinian people gave their votes to Hamas to establish the new government, so the world has to deal with this reality."
Mahmoud Abbas, who replace Arafat at his death has veto power, however, how many really think he will use it, or if he does, that it will be effective for long?
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