The breakthrough compromise announced Sept. 11 falls short of international demands for a full renunciation of violence from Hamas but could help pave the way for renewed contacts between Israel and the Palestinian government. Israeli officials voiced cautious support for the deal.

Hamas, which is committed to Israel's destruction, swept Fatah out of office in January legislative elections and formed a government by itself.

After months of on-and-off talks, President Mahmoud Abbas, the Fatah leader, and Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh of Hamas announced the agreement.

The Japan Times Weekly: Sept. 16, 2006
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