Hamas Says It Is Willing to Negotiate with Fatah on Forming a Government

The Hamas group, which controls the Gaza Strip, has announced its readiness to enter negotiations with the Fatah group to form a united government and end the disputes between the parties. On September 17, Hamas stated that it is prepared to negotiate on issues related to the administrative committee of Gaza, holding general elections, and reconciliation to form a government to manage the Gaza Strip. Fatah is in charge of the Palestinian Authority. Previously, the two groups had engaged in deadly conflicts in 2007. At that time, Khaled Mashal, the head of Hamas's political bureau, accused Mahmoud Abbas, the head of the Palestinian Authority, of 'betraying the Palestinians.' Fatah leaders also accused Mashal of trying to incite a civil war among Palestinians. The verbal tensions led to the presence of supporters of both groups in the streets and ultimately armed clashes. The conflicts resulted in dozens of deaths; Hamas took control of the Gaza Strip, while the Palestinian Authority was established in the West Bank. So far, major efforts to form a united government and jointly manage Gaza and the West Bank have been unsuccessful. The head of the Palestinian Authority stated in mid-August that until Hamas commits to reconciliation and relinquishes control of the Gaza Strip, his government would continue to reduce the budget for Gaza. Mahmoud Abbas also added, 'We are waiting for a response to end the disputes and create unity.' Reports indicate that a plan named 'Call of Al-Quds' has been proposed, supported by several Palestinian figures residing in East Jerusalem, aimed at ending the disputes between the two groups. In a statement recently released by Hamas, it is proposed to establish a united government to organize elections and manage both the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Despite the dissolution of Hamas's government some time ago, the group still effectively governs Gaza.