Palestinian Factions Agree to Technocrat Governance for Post-War Gaza

Historic Agreement Reached in Cairo

In a significant development for the future of the Gaza Strip, major Palestinian political factions, including Hamas, announced on Friday, October 24, 2025, that they have agreed to hand over the administration of post-war Gaza to an independent committee of technocrats. The agreement was forged during a meeting held in Cairo, Egypt, as part of ongoing mediation efforts by regional powers to stabilize the territory following the recent conflict.

According to a joint statement published on the Hamas website, the participating groups consented to transfer 'the administration of the Gaza Strip to a temporary Palestinian committee composed of independent technocrats.' This committee is tasked with managing 'the affairs of life and basic services in cooperation with Arab brothers and international institutions.'

Mandate of the Technocratic Committee

The newly agreed-upon committee is envisioned as a non-political body focused solely on the practical governance of Gaza. Its responsibilities are expected to include:

• Overseeing daily life and essential services
• Coordinating with Arab partners and international organizations for aid and reconstruction
• Facilitating the launch of a comprehensive reconstruction process

The factions also called for the establishment of an international committee to supervise the funding and implementation of reconstruction projects. Crucially, this temporary body is not expected to assume political or security responsibilities, with its mandate intended to last until general elections can be held in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.

Context and Challenges to Palestinian Unity

The agreement comes amidst a long history of deep political rivalry between Hamas and Fatah, the dominant faction within the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). Previous attempts at reconciliation have often faltered, notably since Hamas seized control of Gaza in 2007. This latest effort aims to unify a common Palestinian position 'to confront the challenges facing the Palestinian cause' and to 'revitalize the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) as the sole legitimate representative of the Palestinian people.'

Hamas stated that the agreement was reached after receiving 'clear guarantees' from mediators, including Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, that 'the war has effectively ended.' However, the path forward remains complex. The factions also agreed on supporting the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, lifting the blockade completely, and reopening all crossings. They further urged the issuance of a UN resolution to authorize temporary international forces to monitor the ceasefire and maintain stability throughout Gaza.

International Reaction and Future Outlook

The proposed governance structure has drawn international attention. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, speaking on Friday, stated that Hamas 'cannot be involved in governing Gaza in the future,' emphasizing that there is 'no plan B' beyond the existing peace plan. This highlights potential obstacles, as the agreement would likely require international approval. The contentious issue of Hamas's armed wing also remains a significant point of disagreement.

Despite these challenges, the Cairo agreement represents a renewed effort by Palestinian factions to present a unified front for the administration and reconstruction of post-war Gaza, signaling a potential shift in the region's political landscape.