Fatah, Hamas forces said to ok renewed ceasefire

Gaza, Dec 20: Palestinian security chiefs loyal to Hamas andFatah today agreed to withdraw their forces from the streets of Gaza inthe latest bid to halt factional fighting, a senior Palestinianofficial said.

A previous ceasefire deal broke down within 24 hours and it wasunclear whether this one, brokered by Egyptian mediators, would takeeffect.

The new agreement, a copy of which was obtained by Reuters, callsfor ''all armed men'' to leave the streets, and for Hamas and Fatahforces to return to their positions before the fighting intensified.

The withdrawal will begin within hours, the official said.

Reuters