RAMALLAH, January 14, 2012 (WAFA) – President Mahmoud Abbas’ office Saturday denied allegations Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh has made that the Palestinian Authority sent out letters to various countries he was planning to visit urging them not to receive him.

“The allegations are utterly false and have never crossed Abbas’ mind,” said a statement released from the president’s office.

Haniyeh told his lawmakers in Gaza on Thursday that Abbas sent out a letter to Tunisian President Moncef Marzouki asking him not receive Haniyeh during his recent visit to that north African country. He claimed that Marzouki has reject the PA’s request.

The statement said Haniyeh was apparently “living unfounded illusions” that can only be interpreted as a reflection of his 'hidden intentions to poison the reconciliation atmosphere.”

This incident could deepen the four-year rift between Hamas and Fatah as the two movements continue to work on implementing the terms of the reconciliation agreement to end the internal division.

R.Q./M.S.