The level of concern in Israel is increasing following the unity between Hamas and Fatah, but the Palestinian side seeks to reassure: Sheikh Hassan Yousef, one of the leaders of Hamas in Gaza, says that the unity government to be established will consist only of professionals, without politicians from Hamas or Fatah. The sheikh said this to the news website 'Walla' and noted that "there is currently an extraordinary consensus in Hamas regarding the need for reconciliation and ending the division, which will serve everyone, the Palestinians, and even the peace process.".
Yousef added that a consensus government headed by Abbas would give him the backing to act on the political front. A senior Hamas official believes that, unlike previous times, this time the parties are "more serious than ever.".
As for Hamas' security mechanisms in Gaza, Youssef explained that the issue will be discussed within the framework of a special committee, and the other open issues will also be discussed in appropriate committees.
Hamas and Fatah signed an agreement in principle last night, announcing the end of the conflict, which erupted about seven years ago following Hamas' takeover of the Gaza Strip. As part of the agreement, it was decided to hold general elections in the West Bank and Gaza in about six months.
Official Israel was outraged by the move and even canceled a negotiation meeting scheduled for yesterday evening. Senior officials responded by saying that such a move, six days before the end of the negotiations, was inappropriate.
This morning (Thursday), the political-security cabinet met to discuss the issue.
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