Moscow Meeting of Palestinian Factions: What is Its Goal?

The Palestinian "Fatah Movement" has confirmed its attendance at the Palestinian meeting scheduled for tomorrow, Thursday, in the Russian capital, Moscow. In a statement to CNN, Fatah spokesperson Hussein Hmaileh said, "The meeting will address ways to unify the Palestinian factions under the umbrella of the Palestine Liberation Organization." He added that the Fatah delegation will be represented by Central Committee members Samir Al-Rifai and Azzam Al-Ahmad. He continued, stating that "the goal is to form a new government capable of functioning in East Jerusalem, the occupied West Bank, and the Gaza Strip." He noted that Hamas has not confirmed its attendance but expressed optimism that they would join and send "a senior official from their political bureau to represent them." Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov mentioned on Tuesday that "all parties have agreed to participate in the Moscow meeting." Earlier this month, Russia invited up to 14 organizations to attend, including representatives from Hamas and Islamic Jihad.