Palestinian Authority Assumes Responsibility in Gaza Strip

Following a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas announced that the Palestinian Authority (PA) is prepared to assume 'full responsibility' for the Gaza Strip. Abbas emphasized the PA's readiness to manage the return of displaced persons, provide essential services, and oversee the reconstruction of Gaza, which has been under Hamas control since 2007. Despite Hamas's previous dominance, sources indicate that Hamas is willing to transfer civilian governance to the PA, although Israel remains opposed to any role for either Hamas or the PA in post-war governance. Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has expressed support for the PA taking charge of Gaza. As the situation unfolds, Palestinian leaders maintain that Gaza's future should be determined by them without external interference. The Israeli government is preparing to vote on the ceasefire deal, with U.S., Qatar, and Egypt set to monitor the agreement.