A Hamas delegation met with Egyptian intelligence to discuss a ceasefire and hostages-for-prisoners deal. They confirmed plans to form a temporary governance committee for Gaza until elections occur. Israeli PM Netanyahu stated neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority would control Gaza post-conflict. US National Security Adviser Mike Waltz reaffirmed that Hamas should not govern Gaza.
On Saturday night, a delegation from Hamas convened with Maj.-Gen. Hassan Rashad, the head of the Egyptian General Intelligence Service, in Cairo. The primary aim of the meeting was to address the implementation of the ceasefire agreement and discuss the stages of the proposed hostages-for-prisoners deal, as revealed by Hamas in an official statement. While other topics were raised during the discussion, specifics were not disclosed.
Furthermore, the Hamas delegation announced its consent to establish a Community Support Committee, composed of independent national figures, to oversee governance in the Gaza Strip until there is a complete reorganization of the Palestinian political structure and general elections at all governmental levels. Reports from early February indicated that Hamas is prepared to transfer control of the Gaza Strip to the Palestinian Authority.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority will govern Gaza post-conflict. Sources indicated that Hamas has assured that its governmental employees would either reintegrate into the new administration or retire, with guaranteed salaries. Additionally, prior to taking his role as the US National Security Adviser, Mike Waltz expressed that should Hamas not adhere to the ceasefire-for-hostages deal, the United States would support Israel in necessary actions against Hamas, asserting, “Hamas will never govern Gaza. That is completely unacceptable.”
The recent discussions between Hamas and the Egyptian intelligence officials highlight ongoing efforts to secure a ceasefire and address governance in the Gaza Strip. While Hamas is prepared to create a transitional governance structure, both Israeli leadership and US officials emphasize that Hamas cannot retain control following the conflict. Ultimately, the dynamics between Gaza, the Palestinian Authority, and Hamas will shape the region’s future political landscape.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
