Cairo: In a major step, Palestinian factions agree on Gaza governance, as groups including Hamas and Fatah have agreed to set up an independent body of experts to temporarily govern the Gaza Strip and handle its rebuilding after the recent conflict.
The announcement came after two days of talks in Cairo, led by Egypt, where rival groups decided to join forces to restore order and provide essential services. The new committee will have non-partisan experts from Gaza who will manage daily affairs.
In a joint statement on Friday, the factions said they want an international team to oversee the funding and work on Gaza’s reconstruction, keeping it transparent and fair.
The groups also called for full implementation of the ceasefire signed earlier this month between Hamas and Israel, asking for the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces, the lifting of the blockade, and free access for humanitarian aid, including through the Rafah border crossing.
They urged the UN Security Council to approve temporary international forces to watch the ceasefire, giving the mission a clear legal mandate. They also stressed that the release of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails remains a top priority.
The factions pledged to continue a national dialogue to unify their political stance and restart the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) so it represents all Palestinian groups.
The ceasefire deal, mediated by Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and the United States, started on October 10, covering prisoner exchanges, humanitarian aid entry, and partial Israeli troop withdrawal. Despite this, both Israel and Hamas have accused each other of violating the truce.
Finally, the factions agreed to hold an urgent national meeting to plan a united political strategy and future governance for Gaza.
–IANS
