Reports from Palestinian sources say that Egyptian mediation efforts have succeeded, and the Palestinian Authority will establish a “caretaker government” in the next few weeks that will lay the groundwork for elections in May.

The deal is seen as key to the Palestinian Authority’s international recognition, as Western officials have often cited the “split” between the factions as proof the Palestinians weren’t united enough for independence.

At the same time, the unity deal has been another source of “outrage” to the Israeli government, and Israeli officials have often said that a unity government in Palestine would preclude any negotiations on a peace deal.

At present, however, Israel is still fuming about the UNESCO recognition of the Palestinians, with the Housing Ministry announcing another massive settlement expansion in the West Bank, which officials say is “retaliation” for UNESCO’s move.

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