Hamas and Fatah sign agreement to end long-standing rift

Representatives from the Palestinian militant group Hamas and the Fatah party have signed an agreement in Beijing to end their years-long divide and strengthen Palestinian unity. The details of the agreement have not been disclosed, as reported by the Associated Press citing Chinese state media.

The conflict between Hamas and Fatah dates back to 2007 when Hamas, after winning the elections a year prior, expelled Fatah from the Gaza Strip and has since solely governed the enclave. Despite several rounds of talks over the years, the two factions had failed to reach a resolution until now.

According to Report, which cites Chinese television network CGTN, the Palestinian factions began their discussions in Beijing on July 21. The following day, representatives from Hamas, Fatah, and 12 other Palestinian movements met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.