The Palestinian National Committee for Gaza Administration has commenced meetings in Egypt, sources confirmed to DZWatch, as tensions rise over the implementation of the second phase of a ceasefire agreement. Hamas has accused Israel of obstructing progress.
According to sources, the committee’s assembly precedes its planned entry into the Gaza Strip. The arrival of committee members in Egypt follows an announcement regarding the commencement of the agreement’s second phase and the consensus reached during a meeting of Palestinian factions in Cairo.
The committee, reportedly led by Engineer Ali Shaath, will operate under the supervision of the ‘Peace Council,’ a transitional body intended to oversee the administration of Gaza. The formation of the Peace Council was recently announced, with further details regarding its members expected soon.
Earlier this week, Palestinian factions convened in Cairo and issued a concluding statement, affirming a unified national vision regarding the requirements of the ceasefire agreement’s second phase in the Gaza Strip. They expressed full support for the formation of the ‘Transitional Palestinian National Committee’ to immediately assume administrative responsibilities within the region.
During their meeting, the factions emphasized the importance of aligning Palestinian visions and positions to overcome the current critical juncture and advance towards political unity. They also underscored the necessity of confronting plans to annex the West Bank, the expansion of settlements, and violations against religious sites in occupied Jerusalem, while reiterating the need for an independent Palestinian state.
International reactions have been swift. British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the importance of maintaining the ceasefire and addressing the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza. She stated that transitional measures in Gaza must be implemented with international support, respecting Palestinian sovereignty and the right to self-determination, asserting that Gaza’s future must be Palestinian-led.
Balakrishnan Rajagopal, the UN Special Rapporteur on the right to adequate housing, also commented on the situation.
