Islamic Hamas movement said Friday that U.S. President Barack Obama does not deserve a Noble Peace Prize since he failed to give the Palestinian people their legitimate rights, Xinhua reported.
Fawzi Barhoum, Gaza Hamas spokesman told Xinhua that "Obama does not deserve this prize," after the Norwegian Nobel Committee announced Obama was awarded the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize.
"We believe that there are lots of things needed from Obama to be presented to the Palestinian people in order to deserve this reward. Obama should change his manner and be fair," said Barhoum.
Right after Obama took office, he promised that resolving the conflict in the Middle East is his priority.
"So far, nothing changed. He was giving statements, promises and hopes, while on the ground nothing practical has been done," said Barhoum.
"I think Obama has a lot more to do," he added.
Meanwhile, chief Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat said in a statement that the Palestinian National Authority (PNA) hopes Obama will be able to achieve peace in the Middle East.