Hamas and Fatah, Palestinian factions, have reportedly signed a declaration in Beijing to put an end to their longstanding conflict, as stated by Chinese state media.
If verified, this agreement would signal progress in reconciling the deep-rooted division between the two groups amidst the ongoing Gaza conflict.
Despite past failed attempts, ongoing discussions to unite the factions show promise, while Israel and Hamas weigh an internationally supported ceasefire proposal to halt the nine-month conflict and secure the release of Israeli captives held by Hamas.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggested on Monday that conditions for the captives’ return were improving due to Israel’s robust military pressure on Hamas.
With a potential deal on the horizon, the future governance of Gaza remains uncertain, especially with Israel opposing any Hamas involvement.
Hamas officials have expressed reluctance to resume governing Gaza and instead advocate for a technocratic government agreed upon by various Palestinian factions to prepare for elections in both Gaza and the West Bank for a united administration.
The Beijing Declaration, per reports from state broadcaster CCTV, emphasizes “ending division and enhancing Palestinian unity,” following talks facilitated by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi involving the rival factions and twelve other political groups.
Details on the proposed government’s formation are limited, with the joint statement from the Beijing talks mentioning that it would be established “by agreement among the factions.”
Hamas and Fatah have been at odds since 2007 when Hamas ousted Fatah forces from Gaza. The Fatah-led Palestinian Authority, under President Mahmoud Abbas, has governed parts of the West Bank since, though criticized for corruption and perceived Israel collaboration.
Efforts to reconcile the factions have faced challenges due to power struggles and the West’s insistence on Hamas recognizing Israel for any potential government inclusion.
The Biden administration envisions a revamped Palestinian Authority post-Gaza conflict to lead, pushing for reforms to make it an effective governing body, a proposition Israel has dismissed without offering an alternative.