Hamas Says It Is Ready to Hand Gaza Governance to Technocratic Committee

CAIRO – 28 January 2026: Hamas affirmed Wednesday its readiness to transfer governance of the Gaza Strip to a Palestinian technocratic committee, while demanding the reopening of the Rafah crossing without Israeli interference.

Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem said in a press release that protocols and files have been finalized for a "complete transfer of governance" to the national committee.

"The Rafah crossing must be fully opened in both directions, guaranteeing freedom of entry and exit to and from the Gaza Strip without any Israeli impediments," Qassem said.

The announcement follows statements made Tuesday by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who said Israel’s focus has shifted to disarming Hamas and demilitarizing Gaza. His comments came after the recovery of the remains of the final hostage held in the territory.

Netanyahu vowed to prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state in Gaza, asserting that Israel will maintain security control over both the Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank, despite increasing international recognition of Palestinian statehood.