RAMALLAH, February 23, 2011 (WAFA) – President Mahmoud Abbas Wednesday welcomed an Israeli decision allowing hundreds of Palestinians to return home from war-torn Libya.

A statement issued by Abbas’ office described the Israeli decision as “a step in the right direction.”

It said, “President Mahmoud Abbas appreciates this move and considers it a step in the right direction.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Wednesday that he will agree to 300 Palestinians coming from Libya to return to the Palestinian Territory.

Abbas has officially asked Israel to allow thousands of Palestinians stranded in Libya to return to their homeland.

M.A.