Hamas Gaza Hamas to Dissolve Governing Body Ahead of Civilian Administration

The group says it will dissolve the committee that has governed Gaza since 2007, paving the way for a technocratic body to assume civilian administrative responsibilities.

Hamas Gaza entered a new political phase after Hamas announced plans to dissolve the governing body that has administered the Gaza Strip for nearly two decades.

A Hamas official said the group had decided to dissolve the Gaza government committee.

The official said Hamas would appoint a nationally accepted figure to oversee its work until the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG) formally assumes responsibility.

Governance transition

Hamas has controlled Gaza since 2007, when it took control of the territory from the rival Palestinian movement Fatah.

Since the ceasefire with Israel began last October, Hamas has repeatedly said it is willing to step back from day-to-day governance.

However, negotiations over the group’s future role and its weapons continue.

Palestinian factions welcome move

A second Hamas official said the group informed other Palestinian factions about the decision during recent talks in Cairo.

According to the official, the factions welcomed the move.

They described it as an important step towards allowing the NCAG to begin civilian administration.

Committee awaits deployment

The NCAG is headed by Palestinian official Ali Shaath.

According to Hamas officials, the committee has remained outside Gaza because Israel has objected to its entry into the territory.

Meanwhile, Palestinian factions have continued talks in Cairo with international mediators to advance the next phase of the ceasefire.

Ceasefire talks remain stalled

The first phase of the agreement included the exchange of Israeli hostages held by Hamas for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.

However, the second phase has stalled.

Hamas says a Palestinian administration must take shape before it considers transferring any part of its weapons.

Meanwhile, Israel rejects any future governing role for Hamas.

Israel also opposes an immediate return of the Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority to govern Gaza.