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Hamas has announced it is willing to give up governing the Gaza Strip in return for a comprehensive ceasefire agreement with Israel, according to a senior Palestinian official familiar with ongoing negotiations.
The potential breakthrough comes amid renewed mediation efforts led by Egypt and Qatar, aiming to end the devastating conflict that has gripped the region since October 2023.
A Turning Point in Cairo?
Talks are set to resume in Cairo, where Hamas will be represented by political chief Mohammed Darwish and lead negotiator Khalil al-Hayya.
The discussions follow the group’s recent rejection of an Israeli proposal that called for Hamas to disarm in return for a six-week truce.
Now, Hamas says it is ready to hand over administrative control of Gaza to a mutually agreed-upon Palestinian authority—either the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority (PA) or a newly formed governing body.
However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ruled out any future role for the PA in Gaza’s administration.
According to Digi24, the official described Hamas’ latest stance as one of “unprecedented flexibility.”
Despite the diplomatic overtures, the violence continues. Israeli airstrikes killed 22 Palestinians and wounded at least 45 others overnight in Gaza.
Targets included areas in Khan Younis, Jabalia, Beit Lahia, and Gaza City.
Witnesses described the bombardment as “extremely intense,” with airstrikes destroying municipal heavy machinery used for rescue and debris removal.
Hamas’ surprise October 7 attack on Israel left 1,200 people dead—mostly civilians—and led to the capture of 251 hostages.
Israel’s military response has since resulted in the deaths of over 51,000 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza.
