Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon has called on the new Palestinian leadership to show it wants peace by ending propaganda against Israel.
Mr. Sharon told members of his Likud political party Thursday that anti-Israel incitement in Palestinian schools and media is more dangerous than any weapon. He urged the Palestinian leadership to end the demonizing of Israel and Jews, which he called "the root cause of suicide bombings and terrorism."
In the past, Mr. Sharon has insisted that Palestinian security forces dismantle militant groups before peace talks begin.
Palestinian cabinet minister Saeb Erekat rejected Mr. Sharon's demand, saying Israel should resume negotiations without preconditions.
Mr. Sharon's remarks come amid renewed international efforts to restart the Middle East peace process.
Some information for this report provided by AP and Reuters.
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