Palestinian officials have announced that Fatah and Hamas are nearing an agreement to establish a committee of politically independent technocrats to govern the Gaza Strip following the recent conflict. This move is expected to effectively end Hamas' rule in Gaza and potentially facilitate ceasefire negotiations with Israel.
The two rival factions have made multiple unsuccessful attempts at reconciliation since Hamas took control of Gaza in 2007. Israel has made it clear that neither Hamas nor Fatah will have a role in postwar Gaza, with the Palestinian Authority, led by Fatah, being the preferred governing body.
An official from the Palestinian Authority confirmed the agreement after weeks of negotiations in Cairo. The proposed committee, consisting of 12-15 members primarily from Gaza, would report to the Palestinian Authority based in the West Bank and collaborate with local and international entities to support humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts.
While the general terms of the agreement have been settled, specific details and committee members are still under negotiation between Hamas and Fatah. An official from Hamas mentioned that an official announcement would follow a meeting of all Palestinian factions in Cairo.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed his commitment to continuing the conflict until Hamas is dismantled and hostages are released. Israel intends to maintain security control over Gaza, with civilian affairs managed by non-affiliated local Palestinians.
The United States has advocated for a strengthened Palestinian Authority to govern both the West Bank and Gaza in preparation for future statehood. Meanwhile, Israel is reportedly discussing postwar plans with the United Arab Emirates, which supports a rival faction of Fatah.
The emerging agreement between Palestinian factions is seen as a step towards fulfilling one of Israel's objectives in the conflict by ending Hamas' rule in Gaza. However, the Israeli government's stance on the matter remains unclear.
The proposed committee would assume its duties following a ceasefire agreement with Israel, a negotiation that has faced numerous setbacks despite efforts from American and Arab mediators over the past year.
The conflict was sparked by Hamas' attack into Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in casualties and abductions. Israel's subsequent offensive has led to significant Palestinian casualties, widespread destruction, and mass displacement within Gaza.
For more updates on the ongoing conflict, visit AP's war coverage.
