Hamas denies holding direct talks with Israel

GAZA, May 20 (Xinhua) -- Islamic Hamas movement on Tuesday denied holding direct talks with Israel, saying talks between the two sides are no more than indirect ones via Egypt to reach a ceasefire.

The denial came after Haim Ramon, Israel's Vice Premier, criticized the talks between Hamas and Israel which he said come despite the government's decision not to talk to the Islamic group.

Hamas spokesman Ismail Radwan said the reports about the talks "were lying, incorrect and aim at harming Hamas."

Meanwhile, deposed Hamas government, which rules Gaza Strip, denied the reports. "Ramon's claims are empty and have no meaning," said Taher al-Nono, spokesman for the government.

Hamas took office after winning parliamentary elections in 2006,but the international community boycotted its government since the Islamic movement refused to recognize Israel, stop armed resistance and accept peace deals.

About one year ago, Hamas fought Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' forces and seized full control of Gaza Strip, drawing more Israeli military operations and a tight blockade on the coastal Strip.

To ease the siege and stop the military escalation, Egypt proposed a six-month ceasefire in Gaza Strip. Hamas and the Palestinian factions accepted the offer and are waiting the Israeli response.

Sami Abu Zuhri, a spokesman for Hamas, said leaders of his movement went to Egypt "to receive the Israeli response on the lull and will not hold new negotiations regarding it."

"The ball is now on Israel's court... they have to choose between the lull and pay its price or the war and pay its bill," Abu Zuhri added.