Hamas, Palestinian factions dismiss any 'foreign guardianship' over Gaza, call governance 'purely internal matter'

satellite image shows an overview of refugee tents in Khan Younis in Gaza strip (Image: Reuters)

In a joint declaration released on Friday, Hamas, Islamic Jihad, and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine announced their firm opposition to what they described as any “foreign guardianship” over Gaza. The factions emphasized that the question of who governs the enclave is “a purely internal Palestinian matter.”

The groups also noted that they were open to “Arab and international participation” in rebuilding Gaza, signaling willingness to cooperate on reconstruction efforts following the devastation in the territory.

According to the statement, governance in Gaza should remain in Palestinian hands, with the factions rejecting any external interference or imposed authority.

The announcement came as regional and international discussions continue about Gaza’s post-war administration. The Palestinian groups underlined that any such arrangements must respect national sovereignty and unity.

With inputs from Reuters