CAIRO, November 10, 2006 (WAFA)-The Prime Minister of Italy, Mr.Romano Prodi said on Sunday that Collective punishment perpetrated by Israel on the Palestinian people will lead to more frustration and hatred.

In a statement published in al-Ahram Egyptian newspaper, Mr. Prodi stressed the importance of dealing with the Palestinian cause, which is "unbearable", and to assist President Mahmoud Abbas to launch a national unity government.

He affirmed that steps should be taken to urge the Israeli government to halt its excessive and violent reacts and collective punishment against the Palestinian people.

M.H.(14:12 P)(12:12 GMT)