Discussions on the future of Gaza must begin with the total cessation of Israeli “aggression”, Hamas said, responding to what emerged yesterday from the first meeting in Washington of the Board of Peace wanted by US President Donald Trump.
“Any political process or agreement under discussion regarding the Gaza Strip and the future of our Palestinian people must begin with the total cessation of aggression, the lifting of the blockade and the guarantee of the legitimate national rights of our people, first and foremost the right to freedom and self-determination,” says a note last night.
BBC, Hamas is holding elections to elect an interim leader
Hamas is holding elections to elect a new interim leader: the BBC revealed this, citing a senior Palestinian official familiar with the armed group’s affairs. Voting is taking place in Gaza, the occupied West Bank and among Hamas members elsewhere. The outcome could indicate the direction the movement intends to take, especially as the US and other mediators discuss Gaza’s post-war governance, reconstruction efforts and the future status of local armed groups. According to the source, the people of Gaza have already cast their votes in secret, but it is not clear whether the process has concluded elsewhere. Once announced, the new leader will remain in office for one year.