Hamas Prepares to Hand Over Gaza Governance to Technocratic Committee
Hamas is making preparations to dissolve the governing body that has been in charge of the Gaza Strip for almost twenty years, as per officials from the group. This move is expected to pave the way for a Palestinian technocratic committee to take over civilian rule in the region. The decision signifies a significant political change for Hamas, which has been in control of Gaza since 2007 when it seized power from the rival Palestinian movement Fatah.
Following a ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel in Gaza last October, Hamas has expressed its readiness to step back from day-to-day governance. However, the issue of disarmament remains unresolved. A Hamas official revealed that the movement has decided to dissolve the Gaza government committee and appoint a nationally accepted figure to oversee the committee's work until the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza formally assumes its responsibilities.
Hamas's media office in Gaza announced that an important press conference would be held later on Monday to provide further details about the decision. The group has already informed other Palestinian factions of the move during a recent meeting in Cairo, where the decision was welcomed as a serious step towards enabling the National Committee to take up its governing role.
The dissolution of the Hamas body sets the stage for the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG), led by Palestinian official Ali Shaath, to take on administrative responsibilities. The NCAG was established by the Board of Peace, set up by US President Donald Trump during the ceasefire negotiations between Hamas and Israel. However, its entry into Gaza has been delayed due to Israeli objections.
Hamas and other Palestinian factions have engaged in talks in Cairo to address differences, particularly regarding the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire. The first phase involved the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinians detained by Israel. The transition to the second phase, which includes Hamas's disarmament and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, has been stalled for months.
Israeli forces have increased their presence in Gaza, controlling nearly 70 percent of the territory. Hamas is insisting on the establishment of a Palestinian administration before considering handing over any part of its arsenal. The question of Gaza's post-war governance remains a key issue in negotiations for implementing the second phase of the ceasefire.
Israel opposes Hamas's return to power but also rejects a direct takeover by the Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority at this stage. The situation remains complex as both sides navigate the path towards a peaceful resolution in Gaza.