Beijing hosted a landmark agreement as Hamas and Fatah sign a declaration to end their prolonged rift. What does this mean for the future of the region?
According to Chinese state media, the Palestinian factions Hamas and Fatah have signed a declaration in Beijing that aims to put an end to their long-standing rift. This move could potentially bring about a resolution of their deep-seated disagreements as fighting continues in Gaza.
The latest declaration was reached after a series of talks aimed at bringing together opposing sides. However, past declarations have proven unsuccessful, raising concerns about the effectiveness of China’s facilitated negotiations in achieving a resolution.
Israel and Hamas are considering an internationally supported plan for a cease-fire, which would bring the nine-month conflict to an end and release several Israeli captives held by Hamas. However, uncertainty looms over the aftermath of the Gaza war even if a settlement is reached as Israel opposes any participation from Hamas in governing it.
Ever since the commencement of the ongoing war in Gaza, Hamas officials have expressed their disinterest in resuming governance over Gaza as it was before the conflict. Instead, they are urging for a coalition government consisting of experts from various Palestinian factions to be established and tasked with organizing elections for both West Bank and Gaza. The ultimate goal is to establish an integrated administration that unites these two regions.
According to state broadcaster CCTV, the Beijing Declaration on “strengthening Palestinian unity and ending division” was signed by both groups.
According to CCTV, talks that began on Sunday have ended with a meeting between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and 12 additional political factions, including the two rival Palestinian groups.
The recent talks in Beijing resulted in a joint statement that did not provide any information regarding the formation of the government. It stated that it would be accomplished through consensus among various parties involved, without specifying exactly when or how this process will occur.
Fatah and Hamas have been in conflict ever since 2007 when Hamas forcefully overtook the Gaza Strip, which was previously under Fatah’s control. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas’ Fatat is dominant in certain areas of the occupied West Bank where it governs; however, it has a reputation for being corrupt and disconnected from its people. It also collaborates with Israel on security matters – an aspect that makes many Palestinians view them as acting like subcontractors for Israel.
