GAZA, January 21, 2012 (WAFA) – The Islamic Resistance Movement Hamas confirmed Saturday that its chairman, Khaled Meshaal, has informed the movement of his intention not to run again for the post in the upcoming Hamas general conference, according to a statement by Hamas information center.

It said Meshaal informed the Hamas Shoura Council that he does not intend to be a candidate for head of Hamas.

Members of the Shoura asked Meshaal to change his opinion on this matter, said the statement, but left the issue up to the Shoura Council to decide on what is best for the movement saying “it considers the matter a public issue, and not a personal one.”

Meshaal has been facing internal criticism, mainly from the radical members of the movement, who see in him as too moderate.

M.S.