According to Egyptian reports, talks held in Cairo on Wednesday, 27 Teves 5773 have led to a path of reconciliation between Fatah and Hamas, apparently bring an end to the hostilities between the rival factions. The PA (Palestinian Authority) autonomous areas throughout Yehuda and Shomron are controlled by Fatah, led by PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas (Abu Mazen). Gaza was taken over by Hamas and it is run today by Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh.

Relations broke down between the rival terror organizations in 2007 after Hamas succeeded with a coup, grabbing control of Gaza from Fatah. Ironically, the two were brought closer together after Israel launched Operation Pillar of Defense, the counter-terrorism offensive in Gaza in November 2012.

Fatah spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeina confirms the meeting, stating Abu Mazen met with Hamas leader Khalid Meshal. He told the media that additional meetings are planned.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)