Report attacks Fatah-Hamas deal

JERUSALEM, Sept. 13 (UPI) -- An Israeli report says the deal between Palestinian Authority's Fatah and Hamas groups is only an attempt for resumption of international funding.

Itamar Marcus, who directs Palestinian Media Watch, says the so-called deal to form a unity government "does not meet the minimal conditions that the funding countries have demanded -- Hamas' recognition of Israel and the cessation of terror," reports Arutz Sheva Israeli news.

The agreement was announced by PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas and Hamas Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh.

"Renewed funding is seen not as a secondary benefit of the unity government, but as the driving force behind the agreement," said Marcus.

"Fatah seems to be hoping that Hamas statements that they do not recognize Israel and reserve the right to use terror will be ignored by the West."

The report quoted Hamas as saying it would not recognize Israel and that it had the right to continue the armed struggle against the Jewish state.

"This issue raises doubts whether the national unity government will fulfill the demands of the West for lifting the ban on aid to Palestinians," it said.