DaysofPal – The Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) announced that it does not intend to assume any direct administrative or governmental role in the Gaza Strip following the ceasefire agreement, emphasizing instead the need for a broad-based community body to oversee the enclave’s affairs.
Hazem Qassem, a spokesman for Hamas, said in a statement on Sunday that the movement “does not wish to participate in any administrative arrangements related to the governance of the Gaza Strip,” calling instead for “the rapid formation of a community support committee” to take charge of Gaza’s civil and governmental responsibilities.
Qassem added that the existing government institutions in Gaza would continue to carry out their functions until this committee assumes full responsibility.
The Hamas spokesman described the current stage of the ceasefire as “a complex phase that requires national consensus,” noting that steps have already begun toward “formulating a unified national position” among Palestinian factions.
The first phase of the ceasefire, which began on October 10, included a cessation of hostilities, the withdrawal of Israeli forces to the so-called Yellow Line, and a prisoner exchange between the two sides.
According to U.S. officials, the second phase, now underway, focuses on governance arrangements in Gaza, the deployment of an international stabilization force, and the demilitarization of the territory.
Hamas said the ongoing negotiations reaffirm that “the occupation’s existence is temporary, as stated in the agreements,” pledging to continue discussions with mediators and guarantor states while maintaining its right to resist Israeli occupation “in the ways we deem appropriate.”
In a separate development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Saturday that he will seek re-election in November 2026. Responding to a question from Israel’s Channel 14, Netanyahu, who remains under investigation by the International Criminal Court, confirmed his intention to run again.
Netanyahu, leader of the right-wing Likud party, is Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, having spent more than 18 years in office since first assuming the post in 1996.
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