China Hosts "Hamas" and "Fatah" for Reconciliation Talks

The "Hamas" and "Fatah" movements, along with a diplomat based in Beijing, have indicated that "China will host talks to discuss internal reconciliation efforts, in a notable Chinese initiative amid the war in Gaza." A Fatah official stated, "A delegation led by senior movement official Azzam al-Ahmad has departed for China." A Hamas official noted that "the negotiation team, led by senior Hamas leader Musa Abu Marzouk, will travel there later on Friday." During a press conference, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin stated, "We support strengthening the authority of the Palestinian Authority, and we support all Palestinian factions in achieving reconciliation and enhancing solidarity through dialogue and consultation," without confirming the hosting of the meeting. This visit marks the first time a delegation from "Hamas" has been announced to be heading to China since the beginning of the war in Gaza. Chinese diplomat Wang Kejian met with Hamas Political Bureau chief Ismail Haniya in Qatar last month, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry. The Beijing-based diplomat, who was informed of the matter, stated that "the talks aim to support reconciliation efforts between the two movements."