Abbas approves Arafat autopsy

10 Jul 2012, 9:09 am   -   Source: AAP
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The Palestinian president has given permission to exhume the remains of former leader Yasser Arafat. (AAP)

The Palestinian president has given permission to exhume the remains of former leader Yasser Arafat. (AAP)

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has given his permission to exhume the remains of his predecessor, Yasser Arafat.

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Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has given his permission to exhume the remains of his predecessor, Yasser Arafat.

Monday's decision came days after a Swiss institute found elevated traces of a radioactive agent reportedly on Arafat's belongings, reviving speculation the legendary Palestinian leader was poisoned.

The institute said it needs to test Arafat's remains for conclusive findings, and Abbas has said he is willing to allow an autopsy in principle.

Abbas aide Saeb Erekat said that Abbas has now given final approval, and is inviting the Swiss experts to test the remains.

Erekat says "we are on the way to an autopsy."

Earlier on Monday, Arafat's nephew said he does not believe further testing is needed. It was not clear whether the nephew would block an autopsy.

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