Palestinians Sign Unity Deal in Cairo

The reconciliation deal aims to unify the rival Palestinian governments with an interim government leading to elections next year. After a brief, last minute delay, the ceremony got underway with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Hamas chief Khaled Meshaal and foreign dignitaries in attendance.
While the planned caretaker government has been described by Fatah officials as an independent body of technocrats, Meshaal struck a more political tone.
The Hamas leader told the gathering that "the black page of division" was behind them, and that the only real battle is with "the occupier"  -  a reference to Israel.
Israel has condemned the deal, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday saying it is "a tremendous blow to peace and a great victory for terrorism,"
Netanyahu has urged Abbas to choose "peace with Israel" over any deal with Hamas - considered a terrorist organization by Israel and the United States.
Hamas, which does not recognize Israel, is said to be willing to honor an unofficial truce.
But Meshaal's statement, as well as continued attacks from Gaza on Israel, are likely to undermine any Israeli confidence in that position.    Palestinians Sign Unity Deal in Cairo