14 Palestinian groups, including Hamas, Fatah, ink agreement to end divisions for unity

In a move towards Palestinian unity, 14 Palestinian factions, including rival groups Hamas and Fatah, have signed the Beijing Declaration in China, culminating in a reconciliation dialogue held from July 21-23 to end longstanding divisions and foster unity among Palestinian groups, Reuters reported.

The agreement, announced during a closing ceremony attended by China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi, signifies a renewed commitment to reconciliation. This follows an April meeting in China where Hamas and Fatah discussed efforts to resolve 17 years of disputes. The Beijing Declaration outlines the establishment of an interim national reconciliation government to govern Gaza post-war, a critical step towards stabilizing the region.

Minister Wang Yi praised the factions' commitment to reconciliation and emphasized the necessity of international support to achieve lasting peace and stability in the Middle East. He reiterated China's dedication to playing a constructive role in this process. +

The formation of the interim government is seen as a vital measure to address governance issues in Gaza, which has been under Hamas control since 2007 following violent clashes with Fatah after Hamas's electoral victory in 2006.

The secularist Fatah movement currently controls the Palestinian Authority, managing parts of the Israeli-occupied West Bank, while Hamas has maintained its rule over Gaza. The recent agreement is a hopeful step towards bridging the divide that has fragmented Palestinian leadership and hindered progress towards self-determination and peace.

China's facilitation of this dialogue and its involvement in the reconciliation process underscores its growing influence in Middle Eastern affairs. By supporting Palestinian unity, China aims to contribute to broader regional stability, aligning with its strategic interests and diplomatic goals.