Efforts for Palestinian Unity Intensify in Moscow Amid Russia's Gaza Strategy
Experts suggest that the possible integration of Hamas into the PLO could lead to a consolidated front among Palestinian factions, paving the way for a more cohesive governing body. While the PLO's acknowledgment of Israel is noted, Hamas' potential inclusion does not guarantee immediate recognition.
Palestinian factions, some of whom have been at odds for almost two decades, are convening in Moscow to explore the possibility of establishing a new government following the recent resignation of the Palestinian Authority government.
The primary goal of the two-day discussions is to bring together the factions under the umbrella of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), a coalition of parties that entered into a peace agreement with Israel in 1993. According to Hussein Hamayel, spokesperson for the Fatah political party, the aim is to form a fresh government within the Palestinian Authority (PA).
Hamas, currently engaged in a conflict with Israel in Gaza resulting in over 30,000 casualties, is participating in the discussions as reported by Russian media. Despite not being a part of the PLO and refusing to acknowledge Israel.
According to Khaled Elgindy, a senior fellow at the Middle East Institute in Washington DC, the inclusion of Hamas and other factions outside of the PLO is crucial for the PLO's reform and rejuvenation. Without this, the PLO's claim to genuine representation would lack legitimacy.
Fatah holds significant influence over both the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and the Palestinian Authority (PA), which serves as the interim government in the West Bank following the signing of the Oslo Accords in 1993.
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The Palestinian Authority (PA) has lost favor among Palestinians due to perceived corruption and inability to ensure security against Israeli military actions. Additionally, the United States is urging the PA to make reforms.
Following Hamas' victory in the 2006 legislative elections, the PA's control over Gaza was relinquished in 2007. Subsequently, Hamas took over governance in Gaza while the PA retained control over parts of the West Bank.
PA Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki expressed his hope for support of a technocratic government, acknowledging that he did not anticipate any miraculous outcomes. He emphasized the importance of further meetings in the region following the recent one in Moscow.
Analysts believe that Hamas joining the PLO would be a significant milestone, potentially bringing together Palestinian factions and forming a consensus cabinet. Elgindy stated, "The objective is to establish a technocratic government without any political faction members, but with the approval of all."
Even though the PLO recognizes Israel, Hamas becoming part of the group does not automatically imply recognition of Israel. Elgindy clarified, "Hamas' inclusion in the PLO would not inherently signify recognition of Israel, but it could limit the concessions that the PLO could make in future diplomatic negotiations with Israel."
Hamas has previously stated its willingness to accept a Palestinian state on the territories captured by Israel in the 1967 war, but has firmly refused to recognize Israel.
In contrast, Israel has opposed the idea of the Palestinian Authority regaining control of Gaza after the conflict, a stance that conflicts with the United States' support for a reformed Palestinian Authority capable of governing both territories.
The main obstacles for Hamas to join the PLO, according to Elgindy, revolve around the allocation of power within the organization and how to manage its weapons and fighters. Elgindy noted that negotiating these issues would be challenging as it would require both Fatah and Hamas to compromise on their power for the sake of national unity.
In terms of Russia's role, it is essential to consider how they may influence or participate in the negotiations between Hamas and the PLO.
The talks have also highlighted Russia’s attempts to play a bigger role in the conflict. Moscow had offered to mediate between Hamas and Israel soon after the war started, touting its ties to all regional stakeholders.
Russia has refrained from directly condemning the October 7 attack on Israel, despite 16 of its citizens being killed on the day by Hamas-led militants. That was “a cardinal break from a longstanding public relations strategy in the region of a peacemaker who could talk to all sides,” according to Anna Borshchevskaya, an expert on Russia’s Middle East policy at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy.
Moscow has faced criticism for its ongoing relationship with Hamas, with some accusing it of supporting terrorism. Unlike many Western countries, Russia has not labeled Hamas as a terrorist organization. Over the years, Moscow has hosted high-level Hamas delegations for meetings with top Russian officials. Despite this, Russia has also used its influence to pressure Hamas to reform its tactics.
The Orient House in East Jerusalem was once the unofficial seat of a future Palestinian state. Now it stands empty.
The Orient House in East Jerusalem was once the unofficial seat of a future Palestinian state. Now it stands empty.
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By hosting the talks, Russia may be attempting to assert control over the narrative in a conflict where its Western rivals also have interests, according to Borshchevskaya. "What is at play in these discussions is a competition for global narratives," she noted, suggesting that Russia may be making progress in this aspect. Russia's hosting of the dialogue is primarily for the purpose of engaging in dialogue itself, she added.
She said that Russian President Vladimir Putin is exacerbating chaos in the region in order to weaken the West and pro-Western forces. She also mentioned that the West is currently losing in both the military battlespace and in terms of shaping the narrative against Russia.
Elgindy stated that for Moscow, participation in the war is a means to assert power and enhance its influence in the Middle East, often at the expense of the United States. Despite this, he emphasized that Russia is in a strong position to fulfill this role.
He mentioned that it is one of the few major powers with the capability to engage in dialogue with all Palestinian factions, including Hamas, a task that the US and many Arab states are not willing to undertake.
This report was contributed to by CNN’s Matog Saleh and Celine Alkhaldi.
Editor's P/S:
This article sheds light on the complex and evolving political landscape in Palestine. It highlights the intricate dynamics between various Palestinian factions, particularly the involvement of Hamas in recent discussions aimed at forming a new government. As an observer, I am intrigued by the potential implications of Hamas's inclusion in the PLO, which could reshape the political dynamics and the future direction of the Palestinian cause.
The article also underscores the role of external actors, particularly Russia, in the ongoing negotiations. Russia's involvement in facilitating talks between Hamas and the PLO is a significant development, demonstrating its growing influence in the region. It remains to be seen how Russia's engagement will impact the outcome of these discussions and the broader conflict between Israel and Palestine.
