Hamas in the Gaza Strip: Hamas dissolves its government in the Gaza Strip

The Palestinian terrorist group Hamas has announced the dissolution of a committee that ruled the Gaza Strip as the de facto government for almost two decades. The committee’s chairman, Mohammed al-Farra, has submitted his resignation, a Hamas official said. This clears the way for a body made up of experts to administer the Palestinian territory.

The committee with 15 Palestinian experts was initiated by US President Donald Trump. According to the US plans, it should temporarily take over the administration of the Gaza Strip take over until the Palestinian Authority under President Mahmoud Abbas has put in place a reform program.

Hamas’s announcement that it will dissolve the committee does not mean a complete relinquishment of power. Although it signaled its willingness to hand over civilian administration, it rejected unconditional disarmament. It remains unclear whether a new administration can even begin its work. It is also unclear what influence Hamas will exert in the background and who will take responsibility for the security structures.

Disarmament of Hamas has so far been the central condition for a new administration to be installed. Such an administration would be advantageous for the reconstruction of the largely destroyed Gaza Strip with its around two million inhabitants because it would be more acceptable to donor states and international organizations than Hamas rule.

This article will continue to be updated.