...It would not violate any political principles to at least give the Palestinians their own money; let humanitarian assistance continue through U.N. and private agencies; encourage Russia, Egypt and other nations to exert maximum influence on Hamas to moderate its negative policies; and support President Abbas in his efforts to ease tension, avoid violence and explore steps toward a lasting peace.

TEHRAN (AFP) - Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called on Muslims worldwide to provide money to the Palestinians during his talks with the Islamic radical Hamas movement, state television reported.

"We must make a plan so all Muslims will be able to supply the Palestinians with a yearly financial aid package," Khamenei told Hamas' political leader Khaled Mashaal on Monday.

"This voluntary gesture will create a spiritual bond among Muslims and the Palestinian cause and have a great impact on the world," Khamenei said.

He lauded Hamas for not moderating its fierce resistance to
Israel after its upset victory in Palestinian parliamentary elections last month.

"The Hamas positions are fundamental and right," he said, praising Palestinians for electing the Islamic party.

"The Palestinian people voted knowing it meant choosing resistance and fighting the Zionist regime."...