Hamas agrees to transfer Gaza governance to Palestinian authority amid ceasefire negotiations
Hamas has agreed to transfer administrative control of Gaza to the Palestinian Authority as part of ceasefire efforts with Israel, aiming to end prolonged conflict and address the humanitarian crisis in the enclave.
In a significant development, Hamas has expressed its readiness to relinquish administrative control of the Gaza Strip to the Palestinian Authority (PA). This move is part of ongoing efforts to solidify a lasting ceasefire with Israel after a protracted period of conflict. The decision comes amid intense diplomatic engagements involving Egypt, Qatar and the United States, aiming to stabilize the region and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
The recent hostilities, spanning over 15 months, have left Gaza in a state of devastation, with critical infrastructure destroyed and a severe humanitarian situation. The ceasefire, initiated in January 2025, has provided a temporary halt to the violence, allowing for the delivery of much-needed aid and the beginning of reconstruction efforts. However, the sustainability of this peace is contingent upon resolving key issues, including the governance of Gaza and the disarmament of militant groups.
Gaza governance deal? Hamas floats PA takeover. Photo: Shafaq News.
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Hamas' decision to cede control
Hamas's willingness to transfer governance to the PA marks a notable shift in the political landscape of the Palestinian territories. Since taking control of Gaza in 2007, Hamas has firmly maintained its rule over the enclave. The decision to cede authority is seen as a response to both internal pressures and external diplomatic efforts.
Egyptian mediation has been pivotal in facilitating this agreement, with Cairo exerting significant influence over Hamas's leadership. The PA, led by President Mahmoud Abbas, is expected to assume administrative responsibilities, which could pave the way for unified Palestinian governance and potentially more fruitful peace negotiations with Israel.
Palestinian government ready to take on its responsibilities in Gaza: President Abbas. Photo: Middle East Monitor.
Challenges ahead in the ceasefire agreement
Despite this progress, several challenges threaten the durability of the ceasefire. A major point of contention is Hamas's refusal to disarm. While they are prepared to hand over civil governance, Hamas insists on retaining its military capabilities, citing the need to defend against potential aggression. This stance is unacceptable to Israel, which demands the complete demilitarization of Gaza as a precondition for any lasting peace. The PA's ability to govern effectively is also under scrutiny, given the potential for friction with Hamas's military wing and the need to gain the trust of Gaza's population, which has endured years of blockade and conflict.
The international community has reacted with cautious optimism to these developments. The United States and European Union have expressed support for a unified Palestinian government, believing it could lead to more stable and comprehensive peace negotiations. However, the situation remains fragile. Israel's security concerns, particularly regarding Hamas's armaments, could derail the process. Moreover, internal divisions within Palestinian factions pose a risk to the implementation of the agreement. The coming weeks will be critical as stakeholders work through these complexities, aiming to turn the ceasefire into lasting peace and kickstart Gaza’s long-overdue reconstruction.
