GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip ? The Islamic militant group Hamas said Wednesday it will put together the next Palestinian government by early March – timing that could help Israeli hawks in parliamentary elections.

Hamas officials said the group would stack top government positions with its own people, a move that could trigger an Israeli boycott of the Palestinian Authority. On Wednesday, Hamas nominated three members for senior legislative posts, including parliament speaker.

Hamas, which calls for the elimination of Israel, trounced Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas’ Fatah Party in legislative elections last month. With a solid majority in the incoming parliament, Hamas is poised to form a Cabinet in the coming weeks, severely impeding Abbas’ ability to pursue peace talks with Israel. The new parliament holds its first session Saturday.

Israeli leaders have taken a tough stance toward Hamas, ruling out any talks with the group unless it renounces violence, recognizes Israel and accepts existing agreements between Israel and the Palestinians.