Fatah urges Hamas to relinquish power in Gaza

The Fatah movement, led by Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas, is urging Hamas to give up its control of the Gaza Strip. Fatah spokesperson Monther al-Hayek said this change is necessary to protect the future of Palestinians in the area. He emphasized that Hamas should consider the plight of the people in Gaza, including women and children. Hamas has governed Gaza since taking over from the Fatah-led Palestinian Authority in 2007. Despite attempts at reconciliation, no agreement has been reached. The area has faced severe destruction due to ongoing Israeli military actions following the October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas and other militants on Israel. Hamas has expressed its willingness to step down after the war, but it refuses to disarm. Spokesperson Abdul Latif al-Qanou stated that Hamas is open to discussions about Gaza's administration in a post-war scenario but does not wish to be involved in governing. The group has backed an Egyptian plan for a professional committee to manage Gaza's recovery after the conflict. Tensions remain high, especially after Israel resumed airstrikes following a ceasefire breakdown on January 19. Israeli officials have recently threatened to annex parts of Gaza unless hostages taken during the October 7 attack are released. Of the 251 hostages taken, 58 are still held, with some confirmed dead. The conflict has had devastating effects. Official figures estimate that nearly 50,000 people in Gaza have died since the war began. This has created a humanitarian crisis, as many Palestinians continue to flee their homes. Displaced individuals in makeshift camps have voiced their desperation, lacking basic necessities like food and water. They are calling for urgent assistance to resolve their dire situation.