Hamas announces plan to step down from Gaza civil administration

GAZA CITY:  Hamas has announced plans to dissolve its governing structure in Gaza and transfer civilian administrative responsibilities to a new technocratic body, marking a significant political shift after nearly two decades of rule.

According to media reports, Hamas said it would dissolve its current administrative committee to pave the way for a national civil management committee led by technocrats.

A Hamas official said the movement intends to appoint a broadly acceptable interim figure to oversee civilian affairs until the new administrative committee formally begins operating.

The group stressed, however, that relinquishing control of the civilian government does not mean it has agreed to disarm.

“Handover of civil authority is separate from the issue of weapons and the movement’s military wing,” the official said.

Hamas has governed Gaza’s civilian administration since seizing control of the territory in 2007 following armed clashes with rival Palestinian factions.

The announcement comes amid ongoing political discussions following efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza and negotiations over the territory’s future governance.

Analysts say that if implemented, the move would represent the most significant political change in Gaza in nearly 20 years, although its success will depend on the formation of a new Palestinian administrative authority, Israel’s response and the outcome of continuing negotiations.