PNA: The Formation of a Unity Government

Palestinian National Authority (PNA) President Mahmoud Abbas will dissolve the Palestinian Cabinet within 48 hours to make way for the formation of a unity government with Hamas, Abbas aide Nabil Abu Rdeneh announced Sept. 11. Hamas seized the window of opportunity that opened in the wake of the Israel-Hezbollah conflict to end the stalemate in the territories and create a functional government. Though the deal has little intent to lead to fruitful peace talks between Israel and the PNA, the Fatah-Hamas coalition will act as a stabilizing force to mitigate the financial constraints imposed by Western governments.