Differences blocking peace talks, says MILF

MANILA, Philippines—Muslim guerrillas said key issues are still not resolved in peace talks with the Philippine government and warn against too much optimism over an early accord.

Chief rebel negotiator Mohagher Iqbal of the 11,000-member Moro Islamic Liberation Front said Wednesday that the remaining issues include a rebel demand for the expansion of an existing Muslim autonomous region.

Government and rebel negotiators held negotiations in Malaysia this week.

Chief government negotiator Marvic Leonen has urged that an accord be reached before the end of this month but Iqbal said that is unlikely.