The Palestinian president, Mahmoud Abbas, has vetoed a decision by the Hamas-led government to nominate a leading militant to a senior security post in the interior ministry. Israeli officials had threatened to target the man, Jamal Abu Samhadana, saying his new job did not give him any immunity. Mr Samhadana is wanted in Israel for ordering attacks on Israeli targets. In another move, Mr Abbas has blocked a decision by Hamas to create a new security force, made up of militants from various factions. His spokesman explained why. "The decision is illegal and unconstitutional and runs counter to the law and thus it will be considered null and void," Mr Abbas's spokesman said. "At the same time the President will issue a presidential decree annulling the Interior Minister's decision because it is in violation of the law."