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Palestinian Factions Agree to Continue Truce
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http://enews.voanews.com/t?ctl=C44981:2AB91D3

Factions say continuation of cease-fire depends on Israel's
commitment to halt all assaults against Palestinians



Palestinian factions have agreed to extend an open-ended truce with
Israel in exchange for a halt to Israeli attacks and the release of
prisoners.

The Palestinian groups made the decision Thursday, following a meeting
with Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas in Cairo, Egypt. In a statement,
the groups said continuation of the cease-fire depends on Israel's
commitment to halt all assaults against Palestinians.

Mr. Abbas and Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon declared a
cease-fire at a February 8 summit meeting in Egypt. Mr. Abbas met with
Palestinian militants in Cairo to persuade them to join the
cease-fire.

Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon says Palestinians must disarm and
dismantle the militant groups, in addition to agreeing to a
cease-fire.


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