Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh has announced that his party is determined to hold meetings with rival Palestinian Fatah party to discuss and sign a reconciliation agreement proposed by Egypt. Haniyeh has said that "it is very possible to sign, to end the division, to restore national unity and to attend to national causes."

A unity deal is essential to ensure stability and security throughout the presidential and legislative elections' process due in 2010. Although Fatah has not issued any official statement on the matter, party official Mohammad Dahlan declared that setting up a date for the elections and the establishment of common Palestinian security forces is a key subject to secure a deal.

Further information:

• Reuters: Hamas expects unity pact with Fatah in mid-October