Two Fatah Gunmen Killed by Hamas After Ceasefire Goes into Effect in Gaza

MediaLine reports that a ceasefire between Fatah and Hamas went into effect Tuesday night at 23:00. Since that time, armed gunmen from both sides have been withdrawing from the streets of Gaza City. An operations room manned by security personnel from each group was set up to respond to outbreaks of violence.

According to the agreement, only police are allowed to be armed in the streets. Despite this, two Fatah gunmen were shot and killed in a street skirmish with Hamas operatives early this morning. Six people died yesterday before the truce went into effect, bringing the week's death toll to 16.

Palestinian PM Ismail Haniyeh made a television address imploring his constituents to end the internecine warfare and unite against Israel instead. He also used the opportunity to reject the call by President Mahmoud Abbas for early elections, calling it "unconstitutional" and accusing the U.S. of working behind the scenes to bring down his government.