GAZA, March 17, 2007 (WAFA) - The Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC) on Saturday confirmed the new national unity government led by PM Ismael Haniyya.

A majority of 83 legislators in Gaza City and Ramallah voted for the cabinet of Prime Minister Ismail Haniya, while three PLC members voted against the cabinet. Over 40 Legislators could not vote as they are held in Israeli prisons.

Earlier on Saturday, Haniya said that the new unity government would respect deals signed by the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO).

Earlier on Saturday, President Mahmoud Abbas told the PLC members in a speech that he hoped the international welcome for the new unity government would 'transform into tangible steps to lift the unjust siege on the Palestinians.'

'We affirm that we renounce all kinds of violence and we look for a peaceful settlement through negotiations that we hope to resume,' President Abbas said. He also called on Israel to 'stop all kinds of violence and actions against our people.'

A.D (19:02P) (17:02GMT)