Israel allows some polls campaign in Jerusalem

Palestinians demand political rights in East Jerusalem, which they want as capital of a future state. Israel calls all the city its capital -- a status not recognized abroad -- and barred Palestinian candidates when campaigning began last week.

The dispute led to a call by the United States, sponsor of a Middle East peace "road map," for Israel to allow Jerusalem Palestinians to have access to the parliamentary ballot.

"It has been decided to allow electioneering in Jerusalem by candidates who do not represent groups still carrying arms, such as Hamas," Ezra told Israel Radio, referring to an Islamic militant group spearheading a 5-year-old Palestinian uprising.