Palestinian Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh confirmed on Wednesday evening that there was no presidential decree to dismiss the current government. He stressed that reports about specific ministerial posts are incorrect and he has not discussed this matter with President Abbas.

However, Haniyeh did confirm that political negotiations will be carried out by the PLO, not by his government.

Haniyeh stated, "There should be two conditions for anyone to be a minister - honesty and qualifications". He added, "The composition of this new government is associated with higher national interests ". The prime minister added that, as Hamas is the majority bloc in the Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC), they will be forming the government. He said that this subject is almost complete.

The prime minister praised the role of the ministers and said that they were honest in carrying out their jobs. He stressed that they care deeply about national unity. Haniyeh confirmed that the role of negotiations will be carried out by the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO).

On this subject, Haniyeh stated, "I have no problem if the ministers meet with their Israeli counterparts to facilitate the people's lives, but political negotiations are not our business".

He also called upon the government employees to return to their jobs. Efforts have been made to bring in money, he promised. He said that the Arab League was contacted, as was the Emir of Qatar in order to provide aid to the Palestinian people. He added that he hoped that one month's salary will be secured before the month of Ramadan, which is expected to begin on 24 September.