Palestinian Unity: Hamas and Fatah Sign Beijing Declaration Amid Ongoing Gaza Conflict

Palestinian factions Hamas and Fatah have signed the Beijing Declaration to end their longstanding rift, as reported by Chinese state media. This agreement, brokered by China, aims to promote Palestinian unity amid ongoing conflict in Gaza. Skepticism remains over its effectiveness, given previous failed attempts and the complex political landscape.

Palestinian factions Hamas and Fatah have signed a declaration in Beijing to end a yearslong rift, Chinese state media reported Tuesday. The agreement seeks to resolve the deep divide as the war in Gaza continues.

The Beijing Declaration is part of ongoing efforts to unite the factions. Previous declarations have failed, casting doubt on whether this China-sponsored negotiation will succeed. The agreement comes as Israel and Hamas consider an internationally backed cease-fire proposal to wind down the nine-month war and release dozens of Israeli hostages.

Israel opposes any role for Hamas in governing Gaza, and Hamas has expressed a desire to form a government of technocrats, paving the way for elections in both Gaza and the West Bank. Despite the declaration, the vision for postwar Gaza remains uncertain.

The declaration calls for "ending division and strengthening Palestinian unity," according to CCTV. Talks concluded with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and involved 12 political factions. Despite a joint statement, details were scant, referring only to an agreement among factions.

Hamas and Fatah have been rivals since 2007, and previous attempts to mend the rift have failed. U.S. President Joe Biden's administration envisions a revamped Palestinian Authority for postwar Gaza, a plan rejected by Israel. Palestinian Islamic Jihad, allied with Hamas, still rejects any recognition of Israel.

(With inputs from agencies.)