Two radical Palestinian groups have condemned Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat's article that appeared in Sunday's New York Times newspaper.

The leftist Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) said Tuesday that Mr. Arafat's article could compromise the fundamental rights of the Palestinian people. It said it cannot accept Mr. Arafat's argument that Israel's demographic concerns should be taken into account when discussing the right of return of Palestinian refugees.

On Monday, the Islamic radical group Hamas accused Mr. Arafat of using what it calls "Israeli logic" and begging favors from the United States. Hamas said Mr. Arafat has failed the Palestinian people by calling fighters and martyrs "terrorists."

Mr. Arafat wrote that those who attack innocent Israeli civilians are terrorists, who do not represent the Palestinian people or its aspirations for freedom. He did not refer to Hamas or any other group by name, but said he is determined to put an end to all terrorist activities. The Palestinian leader also said he is ready to resume peace talks with any Israeli leader.

Israel has dismissed the article while the United States said it welcomed Mr. Arafat's remarks. Both still say they want the Palestinian leader to do more to stop terrorist attacks against Israelis.

Some information for this report provided by AP and AFP.

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