RAMALLAH , West Bank, Jan. 26 (UPI) -- Palestinian National Authority President Mahmoud Abbas Saturday said control of crossing points in the Gaza Strip should be turned over to the authority. Speaking at a ceremony in the West Bank , Abbas called on Hamas to relinquish control of the vital crossing points in order to stop Israel from closing off areas of Gaza , the al-Alalam News Network reported. "We are ready to take up the crossings to ease the suffering of our people ," Abbas said. The Palestinian leader also took time to condemn Israeli officials for their decision to impose a blockade on Gaza , a move that deprived residents of vital supplies. "When you deprive the people of water, electricity , and humanitarian goods, even air, the people must explode, and they live in a besieged strip ," he said of the blockade. Abbas also criticized Gaza militants for firing rockets into southern Israel , saying such actions can only intensify Israel's efforts in the troubled region. Palestinian officials have filed an official plan regarding control of the Gaza crossings with the United Nations and the Arab League , al-Alalam said.Related Topics Articles：

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