Hamas female candidates for the Palestinian Legislative Council elections attend a news conference in Gaza Jan. 3, 2006. Running campaigns for the elections started on Jan. 3, and Hamas officially announced to take part in the event for the first time. The elections will be held on Jan. 25.

Hamas leader Ismail Haniya (L) speaks during a press conference held beside the portrait of late Hamas spiritual leader Sheikh Ahmed Yassin in Gaza Jan. 3, 2006.

    GAZA, Jan. 3 (Xinhuanet) -- The Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) on Tuesday launched in Gaza City the campaign for the Palestinian legislative elections due on Jan. 25.

    Several Hamas leaders and members gathered in front of the house of late Hamas leader Sheikh Ahmed Yassin in Gaza City and formally announced the start of their campaign for the January elections.