PLO official: We have the right to defend ourselves by all means

Chairman of the PLO political department Farouk al-Qaddoumi stressed that the PLO will resort to all means in order to liberate the Palestinian people from Israeli occupation.

In statements to reporters in Kuala Lumpur, Qaddoumi was quoted as saying, "As far as our lands are usurped we own the right to use all means to defend our legitimate national rights."

Replying to a question on whether the PLO will resume armed struggle against Israel if progress is not attained in Israeli - Palestinian negotiations, Qaddoumi added, "I do not know to what extent the Palestinians will be able to be patient when their living conditions are worsening."

Qaddoumi stressed the need to tighten the Arab boycott of Israel. He expressed thanks to Malaysia over its continued support for the cause of Palestine.