Representatives from Fatah and Hamas have commenced talks in Cairo to discuss the future of the Gaza Strip amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. The Egyptian State Information Service reported on Saturday that the discussions aim to form a committee to manage Gaza’s affairs.
An Egyptian security official stated that the committee will be established by a presidential decree from Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and will include independent figures. The official emphasized that the Egyptian-sponsored meeting seeks to achieve Palestinian unity and prevent the separation of the West Bank from the Gaza Strip.
Hamas insists on addressing all issues related to the conflict comprehensively, including the withdrawal of Israeli forces, a prisoner exchange, and the entry of humanitarian aid. The group fears that if these issues are handled separately, Israel may resume its attacks on Gaza after securing the release of Israeli hostages.
The Egyptian official affirmed that Egypt is making intensive efforts to resume negotiations for a Gaza ceasefire, which have been suspended since July. Cairo continues to work with Palestinian and Israeli parties to secure a truce and facilitate increased humanitarian aid into Gaza.
Israel has been conducting a large-scale offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip in retaliation for a Hamas attack across the southern Israeli border on October 7, 2023.
On Saturday, at least 42 Palestinians were killed and over 150 injured in Israeli air and artillery bombardment on Nuseirat refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip, according to Palestinian medical sources.
Reference(s):
Fatah, Hamas discuss Gaza future amid rising Middle East tensions
cgtn.com
