GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip — Optimism is rising among Palestinians about the implementation of the reconciliation agreement between Fatah and Hamas, and preparations have begun for the formation of a unified Palestinian government that includes representatives from both the West Bank and Gaza Strip. However, at the same time, fears remain surrounding the agreement’s ability to restore social cohesion among Palestinians. The rivalry among the latter has deepened throughout seven years of division and mutual recriminations, public accusations, defamation and allegations of treason.
Restoring social peace with the victims of the division remains a major hurdle in the reconciliation process. The political split was not confined to the two rival governments in Gaza and Ramallah, but permeated all levels of Palestinian society.
