Hamas eyes Hizbullah model, may surrender political control in Gaza

Special to WorldTribune.com
GAZA CITY — For the first time, Hamas has signaled its readiness to surrender political power in the Gaza Strip.
Hamas is said to be examining the prospect of disbanding its regime in
the Gaza Strip as part of reconciliation with the Fatah movement.

Hamas leader Ahmed Yusef

Hamas sources said one scenario would allow the movement to maintain its troops
and bases in exchange for Palestinian Authority civilian control in the Gaza Strip.
“Hamas has conducted a review of the political situation amid regional developments,” Hamas leader Ahmed Yusef said. “There are those within the movement who see a need to withdraw from the Gaza government.”
The sources said the review was being conducted with the Hamas leadership in Qatar. They said Hamas’ Izzedin Kassam military wing was also involved in the consultations.
Hamas was considering the Hizbullah model in Lebanon. The sources said Hamas could permit the return of formal PA civilian control of the Gaza Strip while retaining its 20,000-member military and security force.
So far, Hamas has expressed willingness to allow the deployment of 7,000 PA troops in the Gaza Strip. But the sources said Izzedin Kassam has insisted that the PA forces come under Hamas control.
Details of the reconciliation accord have been discussed by PA Chairman
Mahmoud Abbas and Hamas Executive Council chief Khaled Masha’al in
Qatar. The sources said Fatah and Hamas delegations would focus on the
composition of a national unity government.
“The meetings will take place next week for a unity government that will
operate according to consensus,” Hamas deputy chief Mussa Abu Marzouk said
on May 8.

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