(VOVworld) – Israel has announced its suspension of peace talks with Palestine and economic sanctions against Palestine which has limited autonomy on the West Bank occupied by Israel. These were the outcomes of a 6-hour meeting of Israeli security officials in response to a unity agreement between the Fatah and Hamas movements in Palestine.

Hamas and Fatah leaders hold their hands after announcing a reconciliation agreement. (Photo: Reuters)

A day earlier, rival Palestinian factions agreed to form an interim unity government in 5 weeks followed by a general election within 6 months. The Middle East peace process brokered by the US is likely to collapse prior to next Tuesday’s deadline.