The Hamas-led government is facing international isolation over its refusal to renounce violence and recognize Israel. The United States, European Union, and Israel have cut off cash transfers to the Palestinian government since Hamas won legislative elections earlier this year.
Its hard-line stance has landed it in an increasingly violent power struggle with Abbas and his Fatah party, the other main Palestinian faction. Since Hamas was sworn into office in March, Abbas has taken steps to curb its authorities.
The plan under discussion was formulated by Hamas and Fatah prisoners held in Israeli jails. But Hamas's exiled leaders, who make final decisions on policy, have refused to accept the proposal.
Hamas has been calling for more time to discuss the proposal and suggested changes in the language.
But Abbas, who has avoided confrontation since taking office early last year, rejected Hamas's demands yesterday.
``If anyone wants to amend this document, then we will not reach any results," Abbas told reporters after meeting with European Union foreign policy chief Javier Solana.
Abbas has endorsed the plan as a way to end the crushing sanctions against the Palestinians and allow him to resume peace talks with Israel.
Hamas reacted angrily to Abbas's threats yesterday.
Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri insisted that the talks must continue.
``You cannot raise the sword of ultimatum, you cannot raise the issue of a referendum while you are talking about dialogue," he told reporters in Gaza.
Also yesterday, Israeli aircraft fired missiles at a car in the Jebaliya refugee camp next to Gaza City, the military said, killing two militants and wounding two bystanders, according to Palestinian hospital officials.
Israel said the main target, a militant from the renegade Popular Resistance committees, was involved in firing rockets at Israel. He died of his wounds.
