Israel renews conditions to accept Palestinian reconciliation deal

The Israeli government has renewed its conditions for its acceptance of the reconciliation deal signed on Thursday between Hamas and Fatah in Cairo.

"Any reconciliation between the Palestinian Authority and Hamas must meet the Quartet's conditions, [which are] accepting international agreements, recognizing Israel and disarming Hamas," a senior official from Israeli premier’s office said, according to PIC.

He stressed that in addition to complying with the Quartet's conditions, Israel demands the immediate release of the Israelis held by Hamas, Abera Mengistu and Hisham al-Sayed, and the remains of killed soldiers Oron Shaul and Hadar Goldin.

He added that Israel would continue to hold Hamas responsible for any attacks against Israel from the Gaza Strip, but he also said that if the reconciliation agreement came to fruition and the PA returned to control the Strip, then it, too, would be held responsible.

He said that Israel would follow any developments on the ground and would act accordingly.