Hamas secretly aiding efforts to form technocratic government in Gaza

Hamas is secretly involved, with the knowledge of Arab mediators, in forming the technocratic government that is expected to manage the Gaza Strip, Kan News reported for the first time on Tuesday.

Hamas selected about half of the members of the technocratic government, choosing individuals who support Hamas and its principles, even if not openly or explicitly.

The Palestinian Authority chose the other half of the government's composition, fully aware – and silently consenting – that Hamas was responsible for the other half.

Kan News also learned that the mediators, especially Egypt, presented the full list of proposed members to Hamas to secure the organization's approval.

This dramatic step essentially grants Hamas a degree of influence over Gaza even after the war ends – through the back door.

Last night, Kan News also revealed that Israel has demanded the United States refrain from beginning Gaza’s reconstruction until there is on-the-ground action that demonstrates Hamas’ willingness to disarm. One of the measures currently under discussion with the U.S. administration is the issue of neutralizing the tunnel networks in Gaza.

Israel wants all tunnels in the Strip to be sealed under Israeli supervision, even in areas not currently under Israeli control. The U.S. administration wants to begin a pilot project in Rafah, and Israel has agreed to this possibility.

Minister in the Finance Ministry and member of the Security Cabinet, Zeev Elkin, commented on the report: “Israel will not accept a situation where Hamas members govern Gaza. Anyone who has seen the situation in Gaza knows that nearly all Gaza residents support Hamas – this is the reality. In my opinion, it is unacceptable that registered members of Hamas take part in this government. But will the Gazans involved be peace-seeking individuals? There are none. I believe Hamas eliminates those who are. That’s why the issue of dismantling Hamas is tricky.”

An Israeli security delegation returned last night from Cairo after a three-hour meeting with representatives from Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey.

According to sources familiar with the talks, the sides discussed the reconstruction of Gaza for “the day after,” and also considered the possibility of a foreign force entering Gaza to operate there in the future.

Among the countries that have already agreed to participate in such a move are Egypt, Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Indonesia – alongside other nations that have not yet made a final decision.

Indonesia, Azerbaijan, and Pakistan are the leading candidates to send troops to a future force planned to operate in Gaza, according to a report yesterday by Politico, citing an official from the U.S. Department of Defense and a former U.S. security official.