Paradoxically, the local-election results may strengthen unity (both smaller parties were trounced, and so have no interest in an early general election).

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While the visit from Merkel -- intended to strengthen eurozone unity -- quashed any immediate fears of a '"Grexit" from the euro, many in Europe wouldn't be disappointed to see them go, according to Economides.

CNN: Euro crisis opens old wounds for Greece, Germany

It was he and leaders of the other Islamist students from the five major universities in Tehran formed an organization that they called Strengthen the Unity, which was an umbrella group designed to coordinate the actions of Islamist radical students on all the various campuses.

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He went on to say that "such a media can help to establish civil society, peace, national unity and can strengthen democracy and effective and accountable government".

UNESCO: Communication and Information

Such unity is meant to strengthen the grip of the totalitarian governments and limit liberties, he added.

CNN: Protesters decry unity plans in Bahrain

If Hamas is carrying out the attacks, its leaders may simply be using them to strengthen their bargaining position in the unity talks.

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As a Palestinian analyst observed, the Islamists' new unity, however limited, should strengthen their bargaining position with the PA's new prime minister, Ahmed Qurei, over any possible new ceasefire.

ECONOMIST: Senseless in Gaza | The