RAMALLAH: Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh declared on Tuesday that the resistance group is open to the establishment of a single Palestinian government comprised of both Gaza and the occupied West Bank.
Ismail Haniyeh said this during a televised address broadcast by Al Jazeera. He mentioned that Hamas has received numerous initiatives regarding the internal Palestinian situation and is receptive to the idea of a national government encompassing both Palestinian territories.
The issue of future governance, particularly in Gaza, has been a recurring topic during the nearly three-month-long conflict between Hamas and Israel. The United States has emphasized the importance of Palestinians being involved in any post-war administration, but the specific role of the internationally-recognized Palestinian Authority remains uncertain.
In his address, Haniyeh also touched upon discussions regarding a potential second pause in the ongoing hostilities. He stated firmly that “the enemy’s prisoners will only be released on terms set by the resistance” without providing further details.
Israeli Bombardments Kill Over 22,185 Palestinians in Gaza
Meanwhile, Israeli forces on Tuesday intensified relentless attacks on the besieged Gaza Strip, leaving the already heavily bombed Palestinian territory in ruins as the violence piled new miseries on Palestinian civilians.
The situation has further exacerbated the dire conditions faced by the 2.4 million Palestinians living under the Israeli siege, with many displaced and struggling to find shelter amid severe food shortages.
UN agencies have expressed alarm over the escalating humanitarian crisis, describing living conditions as “hopeless” for the affected population.
Israel, adamant in its commitment to dismantle Hamas, has warned that the bombardments, ongoing since October 7, may continue “throughout 2024.” The Israeli offensive has already killed at least 22,185 Palestinian people, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry in Gaza. The Israeli army reports 173 soldiers killed in the battle against Hamas.
Amid the ongoing Gaza violence, deadly clashes have erupted in the occupied West Bank, resulting in the death of at least 321 Palestinians.
While a proposal for a new hostage exchange deal was presented by Hamas via Qatari and Egyptian mediators, Israeli sources deemed it unacceptable. The situation remains tense, with uncertainties about the potential for progress in future negotiations.
