Hamas prepares to dissolve Gaza governing body, paving way for technocratic committee

Hamas is reportedly preparing to dissolve the body that has governed the Gaza Strip for nearly two decades, a significant political shift that would clear the path for a Palestinian technocratic committee to implement civilian rule. Officials from the group indicated this move on Monday, signaling a potential end to Hamas's direct day-to-day governance since its fighters seized control from Fatah in 2007.

Since a ceasefire took effect last October, Hamas has repeatedly stated its readiness to step aside from governance, but the complex issue of its disarmament has remained a persistent obstacle. A Hamas official, speaking anonymously, told AFP that the movement had decided to dissolve the Gaza government committee and appoint a nationally accepted figure to oversee its work until the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza formally assumes its responsibilities.

Hamas's media office announced an upcoming "important press conference" for later Monday. A second Hamas official revealed that the group had informed other Palestinian factions of the decision during a recent meeting in Cairo. These factions reportedly welcomed the move, describing it as a serious step toward enabling the National Committee to assume its governing role.

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The movement has decided to dissolve the Gaza government committee and to appoint a nationally accepted figure to oversee the committee's work until the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza formally assumes its responsibilities.

The dissolution is expected to pave the way for the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG), led by Palestinian official Ali Shaath, to take over administrative duties. The NCAG was established by the Board of Peace, an entity set up by former US President Donald Trump during the brokering of the Hamas-Israel ceasefire last October. However, the NCAG has been based outside Gaza for months, reportedly due to Israeli objections to its entry.

Negotiations in Cairo between Hamas and mediators have focused on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire, which involves Hamas's disarmament and a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces. However, these talks have stalled, with Israeli forces expanding their presence in Gaza. Hamas insists on the establishment of a Palestinian administration before considering disarmament. The question of Gaza's post-war governance remains a key sticking point, with Israel rejecting both a return of Hamas to power and a direct takeover by the Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority at this stage.

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The factions welcomed Hamas's decision, describing it as a serious step towards enabling the National Committee to take up its governing role.