Palestinian factions, including rivals Hamas and Fatah, have signed an agreement aimed at “ending division and strengthening Palestinian unity,” according to China. The announcement followed reconciliation talks hosted by China, involving 14 Palestinian factions, as Israel continues its war against Hamas in Gaza.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi declared the agreement as “dedicated to the great reconciliation and unity of all 14 factions.” He emphasised that the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) is affirmed as “the sole legitimate representative of all Palestinian people.” Additionally, an agreement was reached on post-Gaza war governance and the establishment of a provisional national reconciliation government.
The “Beijing Declaration on Ending Division and Strengthening Palestinian National Unity” was signed during the closing ceremony of the talks. Notable attendees included senior Hamas official Mousa Abu Marzouk, Fatah envoy Mahmoud Al-Aloul, and representatives from other Palestinian factions.
Diplomatic envoys or representatives from countries including Egypt, Algeria, Saudi Arabia, and Russia also participated in the dialogue. Wang Yi highlighted the talks’ key outcomes, including the establishment of an interim government focused on post-conflict reconstruction of Gaza and a call for an independent State of Palestine in line with UN resolutions.
Palestinian factions welcomed the declaration and praised China’s efforts. Mousa Abu Marzouk of Hamas affirmed their commitment to national unity, while Husam Badran, a member of Hamas’ political bureau, hailed the declaration as “an additional positive step.”
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz criticised the declaration, asserting that Hamas’ rule will be crushed, leaving Mahmoud Abbas observing from afar. Despite previous failed attempts at reconciliation, this agreement marks a renewed effort towards Palestinian unity. The announcement also comes after Hamas and PIJ called on the PLO to withdraw its recognition of the occupation state.
