Title: Gaza’s Post-Hamas Leadership: US Secretary of State Blinken Advocates for Change
In a recent G7 meeting in Japan, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized America’s opposition to Israel’s reoccupation of the Gaza Strip following its conflict with Hamas. Blinken stressed the importance of the Palestinian people being central to governance in Gaza and the West Bank, expressing his view that Hamas cannot continue to be in control. This raises the question: Who can lead a post-Hamas Gaza Strip?
During his recent visit to the region, Blinken met with Palestinian Authority (PA) leader Mahmoud Abbas, shedding light on the US government’s perspective. Abbas conveyed to Blinken that the Gaza Strip is an integral part of the state of Palestine and that the PA’s role can only be realized if Israel ends its occupation of both Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip, within a comprehensive political solution.
Since its establishment in 1994, the PA has held authority over only 18% of the West Bank, known as Area A. The remaining 82%, divided into Areas B and C, is controlled either jointly or entirely by Israel. While the PA has a functioning political structure, a civilian administration, and security and intelligence services, it has been absent from the Gaza Strip since Hamas gained power in the 2006 legislative elections and subsequently took full control in 2007.
Despite its unpopularity among Palestinians, who view it as corrupt and repressive, the PA receives financial support from the United States, the European Union, Saudi Arabia, and other Arab League states. The PA’s security apparatus in the West Bank, estimated to consist of tens of thousands of forces, operates in coordination with Israeli security services.
Experts suggest that the only viable solution for a post-Hamas Gaza Strip is the return of the Palestinian Authority. Frédéric Encel, a specialist in Middle Eastern politics, argues that neither Israel nor Egypt has the intention or interest in reoccupying or taking charge of the enclave. However, several conditions must be met for the PA’s return to be possible. These include the demilitarization of Hamas forces and substantial international support. Additionally, the collapse of the current Israeli government led by Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu might create a more conducive environment for such a transition.
The United States, under the Biden administration, aims to see an effective and revitalized Palestinian Authority take back governance and security responsibility in Gaza. However, this endeavor faces obstacles not only from Hamas but also from some within the Israeli government. Netanyahu, for instance, has rejected the possibility of a ceasefire in Gaza and suggested that Israel would take overall security responsibility in the enclave after the war. The US has made it clear that it will not support an Israeli reoccupation of Gaza.
Moving forward, achieving a resolution for Gaza’s leadership will require an agreement between the Palestinian Authority and a future Israeli government that is open to partnering with the Palestinians in shaping the region’s future. While challenges persist, a shift in public sentiment and a focus on a two-state solution may provide opportunities for progress.
In conclusion, as the United States and other international actors seek a post-Hamas leadership for Gaza, the Palestinian Authority emerges as a potential candidate. However, various conditions must be met for such a transition to occur successfully. Balancing the desires of the Palestinian population, Israel’s security concerns, and international support will be crucial in determining the future of the Gaza Strip.
