A Hamas delegation discussed a ceasefire with Egyptian Intelligence in Cairo, addressing both the ceasefire agreement and potential hostages-for-prisoners arrangements. Hamas is willing to establish a Community Support Committee for managing Gaza until elections are conducted. Israeli and US officials assert that Hamas will not govern Gaza after the war.
A delegation from Hamas met with Maj.-Gen. Hassan Rashad, the head of Egyptian Intelligence, in Cairo to discuss the ceasefire agreement concerning Gaza. The discussions included the execution of the ceasefire and a potential hostages-for-prisoners arrangement. Although other topics were addressed, Hamas did not disclose specific details regarding these discussions.
In its statement, Hamas indicated that it is open to forming a Community Support Committee. This committee would consist of independent national figures to manage the Gaza Strip until a complete reorganization of the Palestinian political structure occurs and general elections are conducted at all levels: national, presidential, and legislative. Sources reported in February that Hamas is prepared to transfer control of Gaza to the Palestinian Authority.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority would dominate Gaza after hostilities cease. It was mentioned that any Hamas government employees would either be incorporated into the new government structure or retire, with assurances regarding their salaries.
Mike Waltz, preparing to assume office as the US National Security Adviser, made a statement on CBS’s “Face the Nation” emphasizing that the United States would back Israel if Hamas reneges on the Gaza ceasefire-for-hostages deal. He reinforced that Hamas will never govern Gaza, and that is completely unacceptable, aligning with the sentiments expressed by former President Trump and his administration towards Prime Minister Netanyahu.
In summary, the meeting between the Hamas delegation and Egyptian Intelligence reflects ongoing negotiations surrounding the Gaza ceasefire. Hamas is willing to establish a Community Support Committee for Gaza’s administration, while recognizing the need for future elections. Furthermore, the positions of Israeli officials and US leadership underscore a collective stance against Hamas’s governance of Gaza, emphasizing a shift towards Palestinian Authority control.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
