Palestinian prime minister heads to Gaza in renewed attempt to reconcile with Hamas

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' prime minister has traveled to the Gaza Strip in a renewed effort to resolve longstanding disagreements with the rival Hamas militant group.

Abbas' Fatah movement and Hamas agreed last year on the formation of a "national reconciliation" government meant to end an eight-year rift. But the deal has never been implemented, leaving the Palestinians divided between two governments.

Abbas' Western-backed Palestinian Authority governs parts of the West Bank, while Hamas remains in control of Gaza. Hamas took control of Gaza in 2007 after ousting Abbas' forces.

Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah entered Gaza on Wednesday through an Israel-controlled border crossing. It is his second trip to Gaza as prime minister.

Differences remain deep, and no major breakthroughs are expected.