Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas ordered the release of 250 prisoners, most of whom loyal to Hamas movement, in the West Bank on the eve of Muslim holidays, a security official said Thursday.

Adnan al-Dumairi, spokesman for the security services, told Xinhua that the release of the prisoners will be completed by Saturday and will involve detainees held at security posts in several West Bank cities.

Hamas accuses pro-Abbas forces of cracking down against its supporters in the West Bank for political reason as part of a fierce power struggle between Hamas and Fatah movement.

Al-Dumairi added that these prisoners to be freed "are no longer posing danger for the general security of the West Bank." Next week, Muslims will celebrate the end of Ramadan fasting month.

The Hamas-Fatah crisis increased in June 2007 when Hamas routedpro-Abbas forces and seized control of the Gaza Strip. Hamas also carry out detention against Fatah members and supporters in Gaza from time to time.

(Xinhua News Agency September 18, 2009)