Rival Palestinian factions Fatah and Hamas said on Monday they have decided to end years of fighting in a show of solidarity over the Gaza crisis. According to Israeli Finance Minister Yuval Steinitz, Hamas is given 36 hours to terminate rocket fire to Israel, if not, the Hamas will extend its military campaign in the Gaza strip. The Israeli army has seized control over Hamas’ Al-Aqsa broadcaster amid bloodshed violence between the two countries entering the 6^th day.

GAZA:Smoke rises following an Israeli attack on smuggling tunnels on the border between Egypt and Rafah (Photo: kuwaittimes)

The UN Security Council convened in a closed-door meeting on Monday on the council’s suggestion to resolve escalated clashes between Israeli and Palestinian gunmen. EU foreign ministers called for an end to the conflict and China pledged concern parties, particularly Israel, to stay calm.