In the n. Gaza Strip, the Israeli air force conducts an air strike, reportedly targeting 2 mbrs. of an armed group on a motorbike, but missing them. Gaza Ministry of Health spokesperson Ashraf al-Qidra says that the strike wounded 12 civilians. Subsequently, Palestinians fire 3 rockets into s. Israel, causing no damage or injuries. Off the coast nr. Bayt Lahiya, Israeli naval vessels open fire on Palestinian fishermen, causing no damage or injuries. In the West Bank, the IDF conducts house searches and arrest raids in Jalazun r.c. and 1 village nr. Ramallah, 1 village each nr. Bethlehem, Hebron, and Jenin at night; patrols in 1 village nr. Hebron in the morning, and in al-Fawar r.c. and 2 villages nr. Hebron, 1 village nr. Ramallah, and in Jenin and Bethlehem at night. (HA, MNA 4/23; PCHR 4/24)
PLO and Hamas representatives announce a unity deal to bring an end to more than 7 years of division, in a press conference in Gaza City. The agreement stipulates that PA Pres. Abbas will set a date for new elections within 6 mos., emphasizes both parties’ commitment to the principles of the Cairo Agreement and the Doha Declaration, and urges a reactivation of the Palestinian Legislative Council. Pres. Abbas says in a statement that the deal “is backed by the Arab states and the international community, and will boost the position of the Palestinian negotiators to achieve the 2-state solution.” In response, Israeli PM Netanyahu reiterates his warning to Abbas that he must choose between peace with Israel or with Hamas. The Israeli PM also cancels a negotiations meeting scheduled for the evening. Meanwhile, U.S. State Dept. spokesperson Psaki says that the U.S. is “disappointed” by the move. Psaki adds that any Palestinian govt. must “unambiguously and explicitly” commit to nonviolence, recognize Israel, and accept previous agreements between the parties. Rep. Kay Granger (R-TX), chair of the Appropriations Subcmte. on State and Foreign Operations, says that the unity deal “puts in jeopardy future U.S. assistance to the PA.” (HA, MNA, REU, ToI, Xinhua 4/23)