Hamas's move to cede Gaza governance shifts focus to US and Israel

Hamas has declared its intention to relinquish governance of the Gaza Strip, a move seemingly designed to place the onus on the United States and Israel to advance the peace process. After ruling Gaza for approximately two decades, the Palestinian group announced Monday its readiness to transfer governing duties to the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, a technocratic entity established under Donald Trump's Board of Peace.

A Hamas spokesperson indicated that this decision aims to "remove any pretexts for the [Israeli] occupation," which he asserted "continues its … war of extermination." The article contends that Gaza has not become a peaceful haven since the ceasefire took effect in October 2025. It reports that over 1,000 people, including children, have been killed by Israel during this supposed truce. Since Israel's initial attacks following the Hamas operation on October 7, 2023, the death toll has reportedly exceeded 73,000, with nearly two million people displaced and lacking adequate shelter, food, and healthcare.

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remove any pretexts for the [Israeli] occupation

Israel has dismissed Hamas's move as a "trick." The article suggests Tel Aviv might resume military actions in Gaza, using Hamas's refusal to surrender arms as a pretext and accusing the group of failing to uphold commitments. It argues that only the Palestinian side is expected to honor agreements, while Israel allegedly violates them at will, evidenced by the continued killing of non-combatants. Statistics cited indicate Israel controls about 70% of the Strip, solidifying its occupation.

The piece criticizes international allies of Israel for issuing warnings to adversaries while allowing Israel to break rules under the guise of self-defense, even when it results in civilian deaths. It posits that if this hypocrisy persists, another cycle of violence in Gaza is imminent. The article labels the situation in Gaza a "blot on the conscience of humanity," asserting that Israel has escaped accountability due to support from its Western allies. It calls for the international community to demand Israel's immediate withdrawal from all occupied Arab lands, including those in Lebanon and Syria, and to hold Tel Aviv accountable for its actions.

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continues its … war of extermination