24 apr 2014
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The Palestinian Authority says it is considering all options in response to Israel's decision to punish the group over a unity deal with Hamas.
The chief Palestinian negotiator, Saeb Erekat, said on Thursday that Palestinians consider "all options" in response to the Israeli decision for sanctions. "The Palestinian leadership will look into all options to respond to Israeli government decisions against the PA," media outlets quoted Erekat as saying. He added that the Palestinians will respond to Israel's decision, but reconciliation and national unity remain the current priorities for them. |
Erekat stressed that Palestinian reconciliation is an internal affair and Israel has no right to interfere in the issue. He also condemned any possible Israeli sanctions as piracy.
The PA official went on to say that Tel Aviv used the split between the Palestinian factions as an excuse to reject a peace agreement in the past, and today they are using Palestinian reconciliation as an excuse for the same thing.
Under the long-awaited deal, the rival Palestinian factions of Hamas and Fatah are to form a unity government within five weeks and hold national elections six months later.
During an emergency meeting of the Israeli cabinet earlier in the day, Tel Aviv canceled the so-called peace talks with the PA and threatened to impose sanctions on it.
Israeli Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman also expressed anger at the planned formation of the unity government by Hamas and Fatah.
He warned Israeli authorities against buckling under pressure aimed at the resumption of direct talks with the Palestinian Authority, noting that the rival Palestinian factions' unity deal makes peace with the PA impossible.
Since the resumption of the direct talks in July 2013, Palestinians have objected to a number of issues, including the Israeli regime’s illegal settlement expansion in the occupied Palestinian territories.
The PA official went on to say that Tel Aviv used the split between the Palestinian factions as an excuse to reject a peace agreement in the past, and today they are using Palestinian reconciliation as an excuse for the same thing.
Under the long-awaited deal, the rival Palestinian factions of Hamas and Fatah are to form a unity government within five weeks and hold national elections six months later.
During an emergency meeting of the Israeli cabinet earlier in the day, Tel Aviv canceled the so-called peace talks with the PA and threatened to impose sanctions on it.
Israeli Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman also expressed anger at the planned formation of the unity government by Hamas and Fatah.
He warned Israeli authorities against buckling under pressure aimed at the resumption of direct talks with the Palestinian Authority, noting that the rival Palestinian factions' unity deal makes peace with the PA impossible.
Since the resumption of the direct talks in July 2013, Palestinians have objected to a number of issues, including the Israeli regime’s illegal settlement expansion in the occupied Palestinian territories.
The Palestine Liberation Organization on Thursday condemned Israel's decision to withdraw from peace negotiations earlier in the day as "blatantly disingenuous," saying that the decision shows a "lack of commitment" toward peace.
The statement comes as the UN special envoy for negotiations "welcomed" word of the Palestinian unity deal, which Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas assured him would entail the honoring of previous PLO commitments including the recognition of Israel.
The executive committee of the PLO said in a statement that Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu's "announcement to end negotiations only reaffirms his lack of commitment towards a just settlement and the two-state solution."
The PLO also accused the Israeli government of "persistently trying to sabotage international and Palestinian efforts to achieve an agreement" by breaking its commitments, particularly through the "killing of Palestinians, settlement construction, home demolitions, and the siege over Gaza and over occupied East Jerusalem."
"Trying to blame President Abbas for Israel's decision to end negotiations is simply an absurd excuse for a government that places settlements and colonial expansion as priorities over peace," the PLO said.
The PLO added that despite being "legitimate and legal," Palestinian unity was considered a "threat" by Netanyahu and his "extremist government coalition" because it is "a step that takes us closer to inclusiveness, freedom and independence."
Executive committee member Hanan Ashrawi said in the statement that the "national reconciliation and negotiations are not mutually exclusive but are rather mandatory steps in order to achieve a just and lasting peace based on international law."
She added that the "terms of the national reconciliation agreement are clear: Palestine honors its commitments, respects international law and continues its popular nonviolent resistance against the Israeli occupation."
The statement comes hours after Israel announced that it would be suspending its participation in peace talks with the Palestinians which have been ongoing since July in protest against a national reconciliation agreement between the Fatah-led PLO and Hamas that was announced on Wednesday.
The agreement brought to end seven years of Palestinian political division, but Israeli authorities said they would refuse to negotiate with Hamas, which they say refuses to recognize Israel.
'Only way to reunite West Bank and Gaza'
The United Nations special coordinator for the peace process Robert Serry said in a statement on Thursday, however, that Abbas had promised the unity agreement would be implemented "on the basis of the PLO commitments," including "recognition of Israel, non-violence, and adherence to previous agreements."
Serry said that he "welcomed" the national reconciliation agreement, stressing that it was the "only way to reunite the West Bank and Gaza under one legitimate Palestinian Authority."
The statement followed a meeting with Palestinian Authority president Mahmoud Abbas in which the UN "confirmed support for unity" on the basis of the Palestinians' "continued commitment to peace negotiations and to non-violent popular protests," which Abbas assured him would be a part of the unity deal.
Although Hamas has historically taken a strong stance against negotiations with Israel under present circumstances, it has previously said that it would be willing to accept a two-state solution on the 1967 borders.
Israel, however, considers the Palestinian political party -- which has controlled the Gaza Strip since clashes with Fatah a year after Hamas won elections over the entire Palestinian territories -- of being a "terrorist" organization.
The statement comes as the UN special envoy for negotiations "welcomed" word of the Palestinian unity deal, which Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas assured him would entail the honoring of previous PLO commitments including the recognition of Israel.
The executive committee of the PLO said in a statement that Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu's "announcement to end negotiations only reaffirms his lack of commitment towards a just settlement and the two-state solution."
The PLO also accused the Israeli government of "persistently trying to sabotage international and Palestinian efforts to achieve an agreement" by breaking its commitments, particularly through the "killing of Palestinians, settlement construction, home demolitions, and the siege over Gaza and over occupied East Jerusalem."
"Trying to blame President Abbas for Israel's decision to end negotiations is simply an absurd excuse for a government that places settlements and colonial expansion as priorities over peace," the PLO said.
The PLO added that despite being "legitimate and legal," Palestinian unity was considered a "threat" by Netanyahu and his "extremist government coalition" because it is "a step that takes us closer to inclusiveness, freedom and independence."
Executive committee member Hanan Ashrawi said in the statement that the "national reconciliation and negotiations are not mutually exclusive but are rather mandatory steps in order to achieve a just and lasting peace based on international law."
She added that the "terms of the national reconciliation agreement are clear: Palestine honors its commitments, respects international law and continues its popular nonviolent resistance against the Israeli occupation."
The statement comes hours after Israel announced that it would be suspending its participation in peace talks with the Palestinians which have been ongoing since July in protest against a national reconciliation agreement between the Fatah-led PLO and Hamas that was announced on Wednesday.
The agreement brought to end seven years of Palestinian political division, but Israeli authorities said they would refuse to negotiate with Hamas, which they say refuses to recognize Israel.
'Only way to reunite West Bank and Gaza'
The United Nations special coordinator for the peace process Robert Serry said in a statement on Thursday, however, that Abbas had promised the unity agreement would be implemented "on the basis of the PLO commitments," including "recognition of Israel, non-violence, and adherence to previous agreements."
Serry said that he "welcomed" the national reconciliation agreement, stressing that it was the "only way to reunite the West Bank and Gaza under one legitimate Palestinian Authority."
The statement followed a meeting with Palestinian Authority president Mahmoud Abbas in which the UN "confirmed support for unity" on the basis of the Palestinians' "continued commitment to peace negotiations and to non-violent popular protests," which Abbas assured him would be a part of the unity deal.
Although Hamas has historically taken a strong stance against negotiations with Israel under present circumstances, it has previously said that it would be willing to accept a two-state solution on the 1967 borders.
Israel, however, considers the Palestinian political party -- which has controlled the Gaza Strip since clashes with Fatah a year after Hamas won elections over the entire Palestinian territories -- of being a "terrorist" organization.
PLO reconciliation delegations from both Fatah and Hamas said on Thursday that the countdown for the formation of a unity government had begun, hailing the end of seven years of Palestinian political division.
Senior Hamas official Mousa Abu Marzouq told Ma'an that "the countdown to end the state of disagreement is supposed to begin the moment the reconciliation agreement is signed, and the unity government to be formed in the declared period."
"There are many impediments but the will for reconciliation is greater," he added.
Senior Fatah official Azzam al-Ahmad, meanwhile, told Ma'an that "the fulfillment of the reconciliation agreement has already begun, starting yesterday, and in the coming five weeks the forming of the unity government and the PLO meetings should be done."
"This is a Palestinian matter that should not concern Israel and we are persisting with reconciliation," he added, saying: "Israel considers only harm to Palestinians."
Mustafa al-Barghouthi, a member of the reconciliation delegation, asserted that the fulfillment of reconciliation and forming a unity government had begun in earnest on Thursday.
"We are happy with the Israeli anger over the reconciliation, which confirms the appropriateness of it, and that prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu is a lying hypocrite who does not seek peace and we will not admit to his pressure."
Al-Barghouthi also said that Palestinians will witness real changes after the unity government is formed.
Bassam al-Salhi, another member of the reconciliation delegation, told Ma'an that "the legal framework of forming the unity government is supposed to begin and it is up to President Abbas to decide how it should be done."
"There are always complications in any case but it is most important that we overcome them with the positive attitude that led the discussions and the agreement," he added.
He also said that "Israeli opinion has no place in this because reconciliation is a top priority for Palestinians."
Regarding the negotiations meetings that Israel cancelled, al-Salhi said "we were relieved for not attending a pointless meeting in which Israel would fail and the US would be biased to Israel."
Senior Hamas official Mousa Abu Marzouq told Ma'an that "the countdown to end the state of disagreement is supposed to begin the moment the reconciliation agreement is signed, and the unity government to be formed in the declared period."
"There are many impediments but the will for reconciliation is greater," he added.
Senior Fatah official Azzam al-Ahmad, meanwhile, told Ma'an that "the fulfillment of the reconciliation agreement has already begun, starting yesterday, and in the coming five weeks the forming of the unity government and the PLO meetings should be done."
"This is a Palestinian matter that should not concern Israel and we are persisting with reconciliation," he added, saying: "Israel considers only harm to Palestinians."
Mustafa al-Barghouthi, a member of the reconciliation delegation, asserted that the fulfillment of reconciliation and forming a unity government had begun in earnest on Thursday.
"We are happy with the Israeli anger over the reconciliation, which confirms the appropriateness of it, and that prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu is a lying hypocrite who does not seek peace and we will not admit to his pressure."
Al-Barghouthi also said that Palestinians will witness real changes after the unity government is formed.
Bassam al-Salhi, another member of the reconciliation delegation, told Ma'an that "the legal framework of forming the unity government is supposed to begin and it is up to President Abbas to decide how it should be done."
"There are always complications in any case but it is most important that we overcome them with the positive attitude that led the discussions and the agreement," he added.
He also said that "Israeli opinion has no place in this because reconciliation is a top priority for Palestinians."
Regarding the negotiations meetings that Israel cancelled, al-Salhi said "we were relieved for not attending a pointless meeting in which Israel would fail and the US would be biased to Israel."
Israeli occupation authorities refused to allow four members of the Palestine Liberation Organization central committee from Gaza from entering the West Bank on Thursday.
The four members were part of a delegation of 17 members of the PLO central committee traveling to take part in committee meetings starting next Saturday in Ramallah.
The members blocked from traveling by Israel were identified as: Walid al-Awad, member of the Palestinian People Party politburo, Saleh Zeidan, member of Democratic Front politburo, and two leaders of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, Kayid al-Ghoul and Rabah Muhanna.
Al-Awad told Ma'an that the 17 members of the central committee were traveling through the Beit Hanoun in order to continue on into the West Bank when the four were blocked.
The four members were part of a delegation of 17 members of the PLO central committee traveling to take part in committee meetings starting next Saturday in Ramallah.
The members blocked from traveling by Israel were identified as: Walid al-Awad, member of the Palestinian People Party politburo, Saleh Zeidan, member of Democratic Front politburo, and two leaders of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, Kayid al-Ghoul and Rabah Muhanna.
Al-Awad told Ma'an that the 17 members of the central committee were traveling through the Beit Hanoun in order to continue on into the West Bank when the four were blocked.
Former US president Jimmy Carter and former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan on Thursday welcomed the reconciliation agreement signed a day earlier between Hamas and the PLO.
"Palestinian reconciliation should not be seen as undermining prospects for a negotiated two-state solution," Kofi Annan said in a statement released by The Elders, an independent group of global leaders who work together for peace.
"On the contrary, any lasting peace with Israel will have to be predicated on a peace agreement with a unified and democratic Palestinian government exercising its authority in both the West Bank and Gaza."
Jimmy Carter commended the Palestinian factions for securing the agreement and urged all parties to implement it swiftly.
"Any remaining differences must be resolved peacefully. When the Palestinians elect a new leadership – provided the elections are conducted in accordance with international standards – I strongly urge the international community to respect the democratic choices of the Palestinian people," he added.
The Elders said in a statement that the rift between Hamas and Fatah made peace between Palestinians and Israelis less viable.
Israel and the United States both criticized the unity deal, saying that it threatens the peace process.
"Palestinian reconciliation should not be seen as undermining prospects for a negotiated two-state solution," Kofi Annan said in a statement released by The Elders, an independent group of global leaders who work together for peace.
"On the contrary, any lasting peace with Israel will have to be predicated on a peace agreement with a unified and democratic Palestinian government exercising its authority in both the West Bank and Gaza."
Jimmy Carter commended the Palestinian factions for securing the agreement and urged all parties to implement it swiftly.
"Any remaining differences must be resolved peacefully. When the Palestinians elect a new leadership – provided the elections are conducted in accordance with international standards – I strongly urge the international community to respect the democratic choices of the Palestinian people," he added.
The Elders said in a statement that the rift between Hamas and Fatah made peace between Palestinians and Israelis less viable.
Israel and the United States both criticized the unity deal, saying that it threatens the peace process.
A delegation representing the Hamas movement and the Palestine Liberation Organization met with representatives of major Palestinian political parties on Thursday in Gaza City.
The meeting was held at the Movenpick Hotel in order to update them on the national reconciliation agreement signed on Wednesday.
Fatah spokesman Fayiz Abu Eita told Ma'an that the importance of the meeting stemmed from the need for all parties to "work as a team to guarantee success for reconciliation."
On Wednesday, the Fatah-led Palestine Liberation Organization and Hamas announced a national unity deal to end seven years of political division between the largest two Palestinian parties.
The meeting was held at the Movenpick Hotel in order to update them on the national reconciliation agreement signed on Wednesday.
Fatah spokesman Fayiz Abu Eita told Ma'an that the importance of the meeting stemmed from the need for all parties to "work as a team to guarantee success for reconciliation."
On Wednesday, the Fatah-led Palestine Liberation Organization and Hamas announced a national unity deal to end seven years of political division between the largest two Palestinian parties.
Gaza Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh on Thursday urged Qatar and Turkey to provide political and financial support to Palestinian factions in order to help reconciliation between the parties succeed.
Palestinian sources in Gaza told Ma'an that Haniyeh had spoken with Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani of Qatar to update him on the unity deal signed Wednesday.
Sheikh Tamim said the move would be met with the complete support of Qatar.
Haniyeh also spoke with Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu, who asserted that Turkey will "strongly support the reconciliation agreement and offer all humanitarian aid."
Interim Tunisian president Moncef Marzouki also congratulated the Palestinians for reaching a reconciliation agreement and promised that Tunisia would provide political support.
The Tunisian official said the deal was a remarkable accomplishment for the Palestinian people.
PLO and Hamas representatives announced an historic unity deal on Wednesday to bring to an end more than seven years of political division between the main Palestinian political parties.
The deal set a timetable of five weeks to form a unity government, which would hold presidential and parliamentary elections within six months.
The announcement was immediately criticized by Israel and the United States, with Israel's security cabinet to meet Thursday to weigh its response to the deal.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reacted angrily to the agreement, accusing President Mahmoud Abbas of choosing "Hamas, not peace".
On Wednesday, the United States warned that the deal between the Palestinian leadership and Hamas threatened to scupper any chance of rescuing the talks.
"It's hard to see how Israel can be expected to negotiate with a government that does not believe in its right to exist," State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said.
PLO official Saeb Erekat slammed Israel's response to the unity deal, saying that "Mr. Netanyahu and his government were using Palestinian division as an excuse not to make peace."
"During the past nine months of negotiations, Mr. Netanyahu's government has increased settlement construction, home demolitions, killings, detentions and military raids," he said in a statement.
"And the moment we sign a national reconciliation agreement upon a single political platform that recognizes all previously signed agreements between Palestine and Israel, Mr. Netanyahu and his government blame us for the failure of talks," he added.
Palestinian sources in Gaza told Ma'an that Haniyeh had spoken with Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani of Qatar to update him on the unity deal signed Wednesday.
Sheikh Tamim said the move would be met with the complete support of Qatar.
Haniyeh also spoke with Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu, who asserted that Turkey will "strongly support the reconciliation agreement and offer all humanitarian aid."
Interim Tunisian president Moncef Marzouki also congratulated the Palestinians for reaching a reconciliation agreement and promised that Tunisia would provide political support.
The Tunisian official said the deal was a remarkable accomplishment for the Palestinian people.
PLO and Hamas representatives announced an historic unity deal on Wednesday to bring to an end more than seven years of political division between the main Palestinian political parties.
The deal set a timetable of five weeks to form a unity government, which would hold presidential and parliamentary elections within six months.
The announcement was immediately criticized by Israel and the United States, with Israel's security cabinet to meet Thursday to weigh its response to the deal.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reacted angrily to the agreement, accusing President Mahmoud Abbas of choosing "Hamas, not peace".
On Wednesday, the United States warned that the deal between the Palestinian leadership and Hamas threatened to scupper any chance of rescuing the talks.
"It's hard to see how Israel can be expected to negotiate with a government that does not believe in its right to exist," State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said.
PLO official Saeb Erekat slammed Israel's response to the unity deal, saying that "Mr. Netanyahu and his government were using Palestinian division as an excuse not to make peace."
"During the past nine months of negotiations, Mr. Netanyahu's government has increased settlement construction, home demolitions, killings, detentions and military raids," he said in a statement.
"And the moment we sign a national reconciliation agreement upon a single political platform that recognizes all previously signed agreements between Palestine and Israel, Mr. Netanyahu and his government blame us for the failure of talks," he added.
Palestinian Prime Minister in Gaza Ismail Haneyya has called for an immediate political and financial safety net to tie up the reconciliation agreement signed on Wednesday evening. The appeal came during a phone call to the Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim Ben Hamad Al Thani in which Haneyya briefed him about the reconciliation agreement. Tamim applauded the initiative and confirmed his undeviating support for the reconciliation project.
Hamas and Fatah reconciliation delegations are to brief different Palestinian factions on the reconciliation agreement on Thursday.
For his part, Ezzat al-Resheq, member of Hamas’s political bureau, said the reconciliation agreement came to meet an urgent need for both Fatah and Hamas.
The reconciliation agreement would strengthen the Palestinian national line in confrontations with occupation, Resheq elaborated.
He said that Hamas was concerned with forging national unity based on constants.
Meanwhile, Turkish Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ahmet Davutoğlu declared Turkey’s unyielding support for the reconciliation process and its keenness to make every possible effort in favor of the projected execution procedures. This came in a phone call to PA chairman Mahmoud Abbas, according to the official Palestinian WAFA news agency.
Hamas and Fatah reconciliation delegations are to brief different Palestinian factions on the reconciliation agreement on Thursday.
For his part, Ezzat al-Resheq, member of Hamas’s political bureau, said the reconciliation agreement came to meet an urgent need for both Fatah and Hamas.
The reconciliation agreement would strengthen the Palestinian national line in confrontations with occupation, Resheq elaborated.
He said that Hamas was concerned with forging national unity based on constants.
Meanwhile, Turkish Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ahmet Davutoğlu declared Turkey’s unyielding support for the reconciliation process and its keenness to make every possible effort in favor of the projected execution procedures. This came in a phone call to PA chairman Mahmoud Abbas, according to the official Palestinian WAFA news agency.
Member of Hamas's political bureau Mousa Abu Marzouk confirmed that Palestinian factions will overcome all obstacles that stand before achieving reconciliation. “There are definitely many difficulties especially that each passing day deepens the internal division; however, we can overcome them through our unity and strong will”, Abu Marzouk said on his Facebook page on Thursday.
The reconciliation agreement has no sense if it is not achieved on the ground, he added, pointing out that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's threats to PA chairman Mahmoud Abbas are not new.
US threats to cut off financial aid to the PA would not cancel the implementation of the reconciliation, Hamas senior leader said.
“If we remain captives to our enemies we will never achieve any national agreement because our interests do not meet with our enemies' interests”, he underlined.
Gaza premier and deputy chairman of Hamas’s political bureau Ismail Haneyya has declared in a press conference on Wednesday that the Palestinian internal division, which lasted for seven years, was over.
Haneyya declared, in a statement issued after the end of reconciliation talks held between PLO and Hamas delegations, that an agreement was reached on implementing previous reconciliation agreements and forming a national unity government.
According to the agreement, PA chairman Mahmoud Abbas is to start immediately consultations to form a new national consensus government within five weeks.
The agreement also stated that PA president will make consultations with all national factions and forces to set a date for elections in six months.
Regarding PLO file, the two parties have agreed to activate and develop the organization to carry out its functions stipulated in the agreements within 5 weeks.
The agreement also included the reactivation of the freedoms committee in Gaza and West Bank according to Cairo talks.
The two parties praised Egyptian role in the reconciliation file, stressing the importance of the Arab role for the implementation of a comprehensive national reconciliation.
The reconciliation agreement has no sense if it is not achieved on the ground, he added, pointing out that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's threats to PA chairman Mahmoud Abbas are not new.
US threats to cut off financial aid to the PA would not cancel the implementation of the reconciliation, Hamas senior leader said.
“If we remain captives to our enemies we will never achieve any national agreement because our interests do not meet with our enemies' interests”, he underlined.
Gaza premier and deputy chairman of Hamas’s political bureau Ismail Haneyya has declared in a press conference on Wednesday that the Palestinian internal division, which lasted for seven years, was over.
Haneyya declared, in a statement issued after the end of reconciliation talks held between PLO and Hamas delegations, that an agreement was reached on implementing previous reconciliation agreements and forming a national unity government.
According to the agreement, PA chairman Mahmoud Abbas is to start immediately consultations to form a new national consensus government within five weeks.
The agreement also stated that PA president will make consultations with all national factions and forces to set a date for elections in six months.
Regarding PLO file, the two parties have agreed to activate and develop the organization to carry out its functions stipulated in the agreements within 5 weeks.
The agreement also included the reactivation of the freedoms committee in Gaza and West Bank according to Cairo talks.
The two parties praised Egyptian role in the reconciliation file, stressing the importance of the Arab role for the implementation of a comprehensive national reconciliation.
Hasan Yousuf
Senior Hamas official Hasan Yousuf denounced Austrian foreign minister Sebastian Cortes for demanding his Movement to recognize Israel and renounce its resistance following its reconciliation with Fatah faction, describing his remarks in this regard as unacceptable interference in inter-Palestinian affairs. "Any interference in the Palestinian affairs by external parties is utterly unacceptable, and no one has the right to tell us what to do or pressure us," Yousuf stated in press remarks to the Palestinian information center (PIC).
The Hamas official stressed that the Palestinian reconciliation is an internal issue and the Palestinian people alone has the right to decide their own fate.
Cortes made his comments on the Palestinian reconciliation between Hamas and Fatah yesterday at the headquarters of the Palestinian Authority foreign ministry in Ramallah city.
He expressed his hope that the Palestinian reconciliation agreement could lead Hamas to recognize Israel and give up what he labeled as violence.
Senior Hamas official Hasan Yousuf denounced Austrian foreign minister Sebastian Cortes for demanding his Movement to recognize Israel and renounce its resistance following its reconciliation with Fatah faction, describing his remarks in this regard as unacceptable interference in inter-Palestinian affairs. "Any interference in the Palestinian affairs by external parties is utterly unacceptable, and no one has the right to tell us what to do or pressure us," Yousuf stated in press remarks to the Palestinian information center (PIC).
The Hamas official stressed that the Palestinian reconciliation is an internal issue and the Palestinian people alone has the right to decide their own fate.
Cortes made his comments on the Palestinian reconciliation between Hamas and Fatah yesterday at the headquarters of the Palestinian Authority foreign ministry in Ramallah city.
He expressed his hope that the Palestinian reconciliation agreement could lead Hamas to recognize Israel and give up what he labeled as violence.
The Prime Minister of Israeli occupation Benjamin Netanyahu heads an emergency cabinet meeting on Thursday to discuss the impact of Palestinian unity deal. Netanyahu accused the President Mahmoud Abbas of favoring a unity with Hamas over peace. Netanyahu complained in telephone call with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, that " Abbas is not interested in peace. "
Israeli political sources acknowledged, that Israel was surprised of signing a reconciliation pact between Fatah and Hamas movements .
The sources explained that the cabinet assembled to discuses Israel’s next steps after the agreement, , but it has ruled out taking any exceptional measures or withdrawing from the peace negotiations.
The United States expressed his disappointment with the Palestinian reconciliation agreement.
The spokeswoman for the U.S. State Department said the agreement may undermine Washington's efforts as well as the efforts of Israelis and Palestinians sides to extend the negotiations peace process past April 29 deadline.
She stressed that any Palestinian government would have to accept three key PA commitments," recognizing Israel, renouncing violence, and accepting previous Israeli-Palestinian agreements."
Israeli political sources acknowledged, that Israel was surprised of signing a reconciliation pact between Fatah and Hamas movements .
The sources explained that the cabinet assembled to discuses Israel’s next steps after the agreement, , but it has ruled out taking any exceptional measures or withdrawing from the peace negotiations.
The United States expressed his disappointment with the Palestinian reconciliation agreement.
The spokeswoman for the U.S. State Department said the agreement may undermine Washington's efforts as well as the efforts of Israelis and Palestinians sides to extend the negotiations peace process past April 29 deadline.
She stressed that any Palestinian government would have to accept three key PA commitments," recognizing Israel, renouncing violence, and accepting previous Israeli-Palestinian agreements."
Jordanian Prime Minister Abdullah Ensour
The Jordanian premier is expected to discuss means of enhancing cooperation between his government and the Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority.
World Bulletin
Jordanian Prime Minister Abdullah Ensour arrived in Ramallah in the West Bank on Wednesday for a brief visit during which he will meet Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and his Palestinian counterpart, Rami Hamdallah.
The Jordanian premier is expected to discuss means of enhancing cooperation between his government and the Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority.
During the visit, members of Ensour's accompanying delegation – including several government ministers – are expected to sign a number of agriculture and industry agreements with their Palestinian counterparts.
He would hold a press conference at the end of the visit.
The Jordanian premier is expected to discuss means of enhancing cooperation between his government and the Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority.
World Bulletin
Jordanian Prime Minister Abdullah Ensour arrived in Ramallah in the West Bank on Wednesday for a brief visit during which he will meet Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and his Palestinian counterpart, Rami Hamdallah.
The Jordanian premier is expected to discuss means of enhancing cooperation between his government and the Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority.
During the visit, members of Ensour's accompanying delegation – including several government ministers – are expected to sign a number of agriculture and industry agreements with their Palestinian counterparts.
He would hold a press conference at the end of the visit.
Ahmet Davutoğlu Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkey said that his country would provide humanitarian aids to the West Bank and the Gaza Strip to facilitate the implementation of the Palestinian reconciliation agreement which signed Wednesday. Oğlu emphasized, during a telephone call with the Palestinian Prime Minister in the Gaza Strip Ismail Haniyeh on Thursday, the Turkey's full support for national reconciliation between the two rivals Hamas and Fatah.
He promised to launch diplomatic contacts with the foreign ministers of several states including Washington to support the reconciliation.
Oğlu invited Haniyeh to visit Turkey and considered the completion of the reconciliation agreement an important step that Palestinians presented to serve their cause.
He pointed out that the Turkish Foreign Ministry celebration of Palestinian children in the Turkish child day is an affirmation of their permanent standing next to the Palestinian issue.
He promised to launch diplomatic contacts with the foreign ministers of several states including Washington to support the reconciliation.
Oğlu invited Haniyeh to visit Turkey and considered the completion of the reconciliation agreement an important step that Palestinians presented to serve their cause.
He pointed out that the Turkish Foreign Ministry celebration of Palestinian children in the Turkish child day is an affirmation of their permanent standing next to the Palestinian issue.
PLO Executive Committee Member, Dr. Saeb Erekat, expressed severe disappointment at Israel's reaction to the announcement of Palestinian national reconciliation.
"Netanyahu and his government were using Palestinian division as an excuse not to make peace. Now they want to use Palestinian reconciliation as an excuse for the same purpose. This is utterly absurd. The only logical conclusion is that Netanyahu's government does not want peace," said Dr. Erekat.
"Gaza and its population of 1.7 million people, like East Jerusalem and the rest of the occupied West Bank, are an integral part of the State of Palestine. Today we have taken an important step towards better serving our people."
"During the past nine months of negotiations, Netanyahu's government has increased settlement construction, home demolitions, killings, detentions and military raids; Netanyahu has refused to present a map showing us where the borders of the State of Israel are; and the Israeli government has refused to recognize Palestine's right to exist on the 1967 border, although the PLO recognized Israel twenty six years ago. And the moment we sign a national reconciliation agreement upon a single political platform that recognizes all previously signed agreements between Palestine and Israel, Netanyahu and his government blame us for the failure of talks."
"No, Netanyahu, it is not a case of either peace with Hamas or with Israel. It is either your continuation of settlement activity, colonization and Apartheid, or two sovereign and democratic states living side by side, in peace and security, on the 1967 border. You have chosen the first path, we have chosen the second." Dr. Erekat said.
Dr. Erekat concluded: "National reconciliation is imperative in order to achieve a just and lasting peace. We hope that we will be able to successfully close this dark chapter of our history."
"Netanyahu and his government were using Palestinian division as an excuse not to make peace. Now they want to use Palestinian reconciliation as an excuse for the same purpose. This is utterly absurd. The only logical conclusion is that Netanyahu's government does not want peace," said Dr. Erekat.
"Gaza and its population of 1.7 million people, like East Jerusalem and the rest of the occupied West Bank, are an integral part of the State of Palestine. Today we have taken an important step towards better serving our people."
"During the past nine months of negotiations, Netanyahu's government has increased settlement construction, home demolitions, killings, detentions and military raids; Netanyahu has refused to present a map showing us where the borders of the State of Israel are; and the Israeli government has refused to recognize Palestine's right to exist on the 1967 border, although the PLO recognized Israel twenty six years ago. And the moment we sign a national reconciliation agreement upon a single political platform that recognizes all previously signed agreements between Palestine and Israel, Netanyahu and his government blame us for the failure of talks."
"No, Netanyahu, it is not a case of either peace with Hamas or with Israel. It is either your continuation of settlement activity, colonization and Apartheid, or two sovereign and democratic states living side by side, in peace and security, on the 1967 border. You have chosen the first path, we have chosen the second." Dr. Erekat said.
Dr. Erekat concluded: "National reconciliation is imperative in order to achieve a just and lasting peace. We hope that we will be able to successfully close this dark chapter of our history."
The agreement signed on Wednesday, April 23, 2014, between the delegation of the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) and the Hamas movement, calls for forming a unity government, implementing the Cairo and Doha agreements, and holding general elections within six months.
After reaching an agreement in this regard, both Hamas and PLO officials, members of different factions, held a press conference in Gaza City, declaring they will start implementing all reconciliation measures.
Head of the Hamas-led government in the Gaza Strip, Ismael Haniyya, then read a statement that includes all components in the signed agreement.
The recent agreement came following two days of extensive talks that were described as positive. It includes the following main points;
1. Full implementation of the unity agreements previously signed in Doha and Cairo as the core base for reconciliation and unity.
2. President Abbas would instantly start talks on forming a transitional National Unity Government, a government that would be declared within five weeks, as agreed upon, and would be based on the Doha and Cairo Declarations.
3. Elections; the agreement affirms holding parallel Legislative, Presidential and National Council elections, on a date that would be decided by Abbas after holding talks with all factions.
The elections would be held at least six months after the transitional unity government is formed. Preparations would be discussed during the upcoming meeting of the committee in charge of reforming the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO).
4. The PLO; an agreement was reached to reform, reactivate and develop the PLO within five weeks, so that it can perform its duties and continue to hold meetings with all factions as planned.
5. Social Reconciliation Committee; the committee, and its subsidiary committees, would immediately start their duties as per signed agreements within five weeks, and would continue to hold scheduled meetings as planned.
6. Freedoms Committee; implementing the Public Freedoms File agreed upon as part of the Cairo Agreement, and to resume its activities in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip to ensure the resumption and continuation of its work, and the implementation its decisions.
6. The Legislative Council; implementing all related agreements to allow it to perform its duties.
The delegates thanked Egypt for its role in supervising unity talks and agreements, affirmed their commitment to unity, and stressed on the importance of Arab mediation and support to ensure a comprehensive implementation of the reconciliation agreement.
Member of the Central Committee of the Fateh Movement, head of the Fateh Delegation, Azzam al-Ahmad, thanked Ismail Haniyya for his efforts to ensure national unity, and thanked all political leaders, and independent figures, for their willingness and efforts to reach this goal.
Al-Ahmad said he hopes this agreement will be a starting point for a real national unity, based on partnership between all factions, intellectuals and independent figures in Palestine.
After reaching an agreement in this regard, both Hamas and PLO officials, members of different factions, held a press conference in Gaza City, declaring they will start implementing all reconciliation measures.
Head of the Hamas-led government in the Gaza Strip, Ismael Haniyya, then read a statement that includes all components in the signed agreement.
The recent agreement came following two days of extensive talks that were described as positive. It includes the following main points;
1. Full implementation of the unity agreements previously signed in Doha and Cairo as the core base for reconciliation and unity.
2. President Abbas would instantly start talks on forming a transitional National Unity Government, a government that would be declared within five weeks, as agreed upon, and would be based on the Doha and Cairo Declarations.
3. Elections; the agreement affirms holding parallel Legislative, Presidential and National Council elections, on a date that would be decided by Abbas after holding talks with all factions.
The elections would be held at least six months after the transitional unity government is formed. Preparations would be discussed during the upcoming meeting of the committee in charge of reforming the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO).
4. The PLO; an agreement was reached to reform, reactivate and develop the PLO within five weeks, so that it can perform its duties and continue to hold meetings with all factions as planned.
5. Social Reconciliation Committee; the committee, and its subsidiary committees, would immediately start their duties as per signed agreements within five weeks, and would continue to hold scheduled meetings as planned.
6. Freedoms Committee; implementing the Public Freedoms File agreed upon as part of the Cairo Agreement, and to resume its activities in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip to ensure the resumption and continuation of its work, and the implementation its decisions.
6. The Legislative Council; implementing all related agreements to allow it to perform its duties.
The delegates thanked Egypt for its role in supervising unity talks and agreements, affirmed their commitment to unity, and stressed on the importance of Arab mediation and support to ensure a comprehensive implementation of the reconciliation agreement.
Member of the Central Committee of the Fateh Movement, head of the Fateh Delegation, Azzam al-Ahmad, thanked Ismail Haniyya for his efforts to ensure national unity, and thanked all political leaders, and independent figures, for their willingness and efforts to reach this goal.
Al-Ahmad said he hopes this agreement will be a starting point for a real national unity, based on partnership between all factions, intellectuals and independent figures in Palestine.
Israeli Foreign Minister and head of Israel Our Home Party, Avigdor Lieberman, stated Wednesday that the signed agreement between Fateh and Hamas movements “is an end to political negotiations with Israel”.
Israeli Foreign Minister and head of Israel Our Home Party, Avigdor Lieberman, stated Wednesday that the signed agreement between Fateh and Hamas movements “is an end to political negotiations with Israel”.
The two movements agreed to form a technocrat government which would also include other factions and independent figures.
In a statement issued by his office, Lieberman said that the Palestinian Authority cannot make peace with Israel and the Hamas movement at the same time.
He added that “Hamas is a terrorist organization that seeks the annihilation of Israel”, therefore, any agreement or reconciliation with it means an end to the political process between Israel and the Palestinian Authority.
Lieberman, a settler himself living in an illegal settlement in the occupied West Bank, is known for his harsh stances and positions.
In his previous positions, in different Israeli governments and as a member of Knesset, he repeatedly described the Palestinians with the Arabs in historic Palestine as a strategic threat, and called for deporting them to nearby Arab countries. He also served as the “Minister of Strategic Affairs”.
Meanwhile, the United States said that its recognition of a newly formed Palestinian government, and “continued support” depends on the government’s respect and implementation of all previously signed peace deals between Israel and the Palestinians.
The agreement signed Wednesday between Fateh and Hamas is an agreement to implement the previously signed unity agreements, which were signed years ago in Doha – Qatar, and in Cairo – Egypt.
President Mahmoud Abbas will start talks on forming the new transitional national unity government that will be formed within five weeks, and will be holding talks on declaring new elections that would be held at least six months after the new government is formed.
The two movements agreed to form a technocrat government which would also include other factions and independent figures.
In a statement issued by his office, Lieberman said that the Palestinian Authority cannot make peace with Israel and the Hamas movement at the same time.
He added that “Hamas is a terrorist organization that seeks the annihilation of Israel”, therefore, any agreement or reconciliation with it means an end to the political process between Israel and the Palestinian Authority.
Lieberman, a settler himself living in an illegal settlement in the occupied West Bank, is known for his harsh stances and positions.
In his previous positions, in different Israeli governments and as a member of Knesset, he repeatedly described the Palestinians with the Arabs in historic Palestine as a strategic threat, and called for deporting them to nearby Arab countries. He also served as the “Minister of Strategic Affairs”.
Meanwhile, the United States said that its recognition of a newly formed Palestinian government, and “continued support” depends on the government’s respect and implementation of all previously signed peace deals between Israel and the Palestinians.
The agreement signed Wednesday between Fateh and Hamas is an agreement to implement the previously signed unity agreements, which were signed years ago in Doha – Qatar, and in Cairo – Egypt.
President Mahmoud Abbas will start talks on forming the new transitional national unity government that will be formed within five weeks, and will be holding talks on declaring new elections that would be held at least six months after the new government is formed.
Israeli Foreign Minister and head of Israel Our Home Party, Avigdor Lieberman, stated Wednesday that the signed agreement between Fateh and Hamas movements “is an end to political negotiations with Israel”.
The two movements agreed to form a technocrat government which would also include other factions and independent figures.
In a statement issued by his office, Lieberman said that the Palestinian Authority cannot make peace with Israel and the Hamas movement at the same time.
He added that “Hamas is a terrorist organization that seeks the annihilation of Israel”, therefore, any agreement or reconciliation with it means an end to the political process between Israel and the Palestinian Authority.
Lieberman, a settler himself living in an illegal settlement in the occupied West Bank, is known for his harsh stances and positions.
In his previous positions, in different Israeli governments and as a member of Knesset, he repeatedly described the Palestinians with the Arabs in historic Palestine as a strategic threat, and called for deporting them to nearby Arab countries. He also served as the “Minister of Strategic Affairs”.
Meanwhile, the United States said that its recognition of a newly formed Palestinian government, and “continued support” depends on the government’s respect and implementation of all previously signed peace deals between Israel and the Palestinians.
The agreement signed Wednesday between Fateh and Hamas is an agreement to implement the previously signed unity agreements, which were signed years ago in Doha – Qatar, and in Cairo – Egypt.
President Mahmoud Abbas will start talks on forming the new transitional national unity government that will be formed within five weeks, and will be holding talks on declaring new elections that would be held at least six months after the new government is formed.
The two movements agreed to form a technocrat government which would also include other factions and independent figures.
In a statement issued by his office, Lieberman said that the Palestinian Authority cannot make peace with Israel and the Hamas movement at the same time.
He added that “Hamas is a terrorist organization that seeks the annihilation of Israel”, therefore, any agreement or reconciliation with it means an end to the political process between Israel and the Palestinian Authority.
Lieberman, a settler himself living in an illegal settlement in the occupied West Bank, is known for his harsh stances and positions.
In his previous positions, in different Israeli governments and as a member of Knesset, he repeatedly described the Palestinians with the Arabs in historic Palestine as a strategic threat, and called for deporting them to nearby Arab countries. He also served as the “Minister of Strategic Affairs”.
Meanwhile, the United States said that its recognition of a newly formed Palestinian government, and “continued support” depends on the government’s respect and implementation of all previously signed peace deals between Israel and the Palestinians.
The agreement signed Wednesday between Fateh and Hamas is an agreement to implement the previously signed unity agreements, which were signed years ago in Doha – Qatar, and in Cairo – Egypt.
President Mahmoud Abbas will start talks on forming the new transitional national unity government that will be formed within five weeks, and will be holding talks on declaring new elections that would be held at least six months after the new government is formed.
In one of its first comments on the signed reconciliation agreement between Fateh and Hamas movements, and the decision to form a unity government, the United States said its support, including financial, to any Palestinian government is based on respecting all signed peace agreements with Israel.
Media sources quoted a U.S. official stating that the new government must respect all signed treaties and peace agreements once it is formed, the Palestine News Network (PNN) has reported.
The official added that this also includes a clear recognition of Israel, and a clear “renunciation of violence”.
The official further said that the U.S. Administration would evaluate the new Palestinian government, to ensure that it abides by all agreements and, then, it will decide whether or not to continue to provide fanatical support.
The statement did not include a demand that Israel must respect all signed agreements, including stopping its ongoing invasions and assaults, which led to dozens of casualties and hundreds of arrests since the beginning of this year.
Media sources quoted a U.S. official stating that the new government must respect all signed treaties and peace agreements once it is formed, the Palestine News Network (PNN) has reported.
The official added that this also includes a clear recognition of Israel, and a clear “renunciation of violence”.
The official further said that the U.S. Administration would evaluate the new Palestinian government, to ensure that it abides by all agreements and, then, it will decide whether or not to continue to provide fanatical support.
The statement did not include a demand that Israel must respect all signed agreements, including stopping its ongoing invasions and assaults, which led to dozens of casualties and hundreds of arrests since the beginning of this year.
A woman waves the national flag as she celebrates the agreement to form a unity government in Gaza on April 23, 2014
Israel's security cabinet was to meet on Thursday morning to weigh its response to a unity deal struck between the PLO and Hamas.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reacted angrily to Wednesday's agreement between the rival factions accusing Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas of choosing "Hamas, not peace".
Public radio said ministers were likely to announce fresh retaliatory measures on top of a raft of financial sanctions unveiled this month when the Palestinians applied to join 15 international treaties.
"By tying itself to Hamas, the Palestinian leadership is turning its back on peace," a Netanyahu aide said.
PLO official Saeb Erekat slammed Israel's response to the unity deal, saying that "Mr. Netanyahu and his government were using Palestinian division as an excuse not to make peace."
"During the past nine months of negotiations, Mr. Netanyahu's government has increased settlement construction, home demolitions, killings, detentions and military raids," he said in a statement.
The Israeli government has refused to present a map showing the PLO where the borders of the Israeli state are and has refused to recognize Palestine's right to exist on the 1967 border, he added.
"And the moment we sign a national reconciliation agreement upon a single political platform that recognizes all previously signed agreements between Palestine and Israel, Mr. Netanyahu and his government blame us for the failure of talks," he said.
Israel already announced on April 10 that it was freezing the transfer of some $111 million in taxes it collects on behalf of Abbas's Palestinian Authority, which account for some two-thirds of its revenues.
The deal between the Palestinian leadership and Hamas came as US-brokered peace talks which opened last July teetered on the brink of collapse just days before their scheduled April 29 conclusion.
US envoy Martin Indyk has held repeated meetings with the two sides in a last-ditch bid to salvage the negotiations.
Erekat denied any three-way meeting has been planned for Wednesday but acknowledged he would meet Indyk on Thursday without the Israelis.
US warning
Abbas says he will not extend the negotiations unless Israel agrees to a freeze on all settlement construction in the occupied West Bank, including annexed East Jerusalem, and frees a group of Palestinian prisoners who had been earmarked for release this month.
He has also demanded the two sides launch straight into negotiations on the future borders of the Palestinians' promised state.
Israel has dismissed all three conditions.
Washington warned Wednesday that the deal between the Palestinian leadership and Hamas threatened to scupper any chance of rescuing the talks.
"It's hard to see how Israel can be expected to negotiate with a government that does not believe in its right to exist," State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said.
The division between Fatah and Hamas began in 2006, when Hamas won Palestinian legislative elections.
In the following year, clashes erupted between Fatah and Hamas, leaving Hamas in control of the Strip and Fatah in control of parts of the occupied West Bank.
The groups have made failed attempts at national reconciliation for years, most recently in 2012, when they signed two agreements -- one in Cairo and a subsequent one in Doha -- which have as of yet been entirely unimplemented.
Israel's security cabinet was to meet on Thursday morning to weigh its response to a unity deal struck between the PLO and Hamas.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reacted angrily to Wednesday's agreement between the rival factions accusing Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas of choosing "Hamas, not peace".
Public radio said ministers were likely to announce fresh retaliatory measures on top of a raft of financial sanctions unveiled this month when the Palestinians applied to join 15 international treaties.
"By tying itself to Hamas, the Palestinian leadership is turning its back on peace," a Netanyahu aide said.
PLO official Saeb Erekat slammed Israel's response to the unity deal, saying that "Mr. Netanyahu and his government were using Palestinian division as an excuse not to make peace."
"During the past nine months of negotiations, Mr. Netanyahu's government has increased settlement construction, home demolitions, killings, detentions and military raids," he said in a statement.
The Israeli government has refused to present a map showing the PLO where the borders of the Israeli state are and has refused to recognize Palestine's right to exist on the 1967 border, he added.
"And the moment we sign a national reconciliation agreement upon a single political platform that recognizes all previously signed agreements between Palestine and Israel, Mr. Netanyahu and his government blame us for the failure of talks," he said.
Israel already announced on April 10 that it was freezing the transfer of some $111 million in taxes it collects on behalf of Abbas's Palestinian Authority, which account for some two-thirds of its revenues.
The deal between the Palestinian leadership and Hamas came as US-brokered peace talks which opened last July teetered on the brink of collapse just days before their scheduled April 29 conclusion.
US envoy Martin Indyk has held repeated meetings with the two sides in a last-ditch bid to salvage the negotiations.
Erekat denied any three-way meeting has been planned for Wednesday but acknowledged he would meet Indyk on Thursday without the Israelis.
US warning
Abbas says he will not extend the negotiations unless Israel agrees to a freeze on all settlement construction in the occupied West Bank, including annexed East Jerusalem, and frees a group of Palestinian prisoners who had been earmarked for release this month.
He has also demanded the two sides launch straight into negotiations on the future borders of the Palestinians' promised state.
Israel has dismissed all three conditions.
Washington warned Wednesday that the deal between the Palestinian leadership and Hamas threatened to scupper any chance of rescuing the talks.
"It's hard to see how Israel can be expected to negotiate with a government that does not believe in its right to exist," State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said.
The division between Fatah and Hamas began in 2006, when Hamas won Palestinian legislative elections.
In the following year, clashes erupted between Fatah and Hamas, leaving Hamas in control of the Strip and Fatah in control of parts of the occupied West Bank.
The groups have made failed attempts at national reconciliation for years, most recently in 2012, when they signed two agreements -- one in Cairo and a subsequent one in Doha -- which have as of yet been entirely unimplemented.
A teenage boy was found hanged to death at his home in Deir al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip on Thursday.
Palestinian security officials said the 18-year-old had committed suicide. Relatives said they were unaware of any psychological issues.
Hamas police have opened an investigation into the incident.
Palestinian security officials said the 18-year-old had committed suicide. Relatives said they were unaware of any psychological issues.
Hamas police have opened an investigation into the incident.
Ashraf Nassar 22
Fishermen in the Gaza Strip on Thursday found the body of a Palestinian fighter affiliated with Hamas' al-Qassam Brigades, Gaza security services said.
Fishermen spotted the body off the coast of Rafah and Hamas naval units immediately rushed to recover it from the sea.
It is believed to be the body of Ashraf Nassar, 22, who was killed last week during a military drill.
Fishermen in the Gaza Strip on Thursday found the body of a Palestinian fighter affiliated with Hamas' al-Qassam Brigades, Gaza security services said.
Fishermen spotted the body off the coast of Rafah and Hamas naval units immediately rushed to recover it from the sea.
It is believed to be the body of Ashraf Nassar, 22, who was killed last week during a military drill.
