Hamas announces dissolution of Gaza governing body
Ismail al-Thawabta, head of Hamas' government media office, addresses a press conference at the Al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza Strip on July 6, 2026. (AFP)
Palestinian Islamist movement Hamas announced on July 6 the dissolution of the body that has governed the Gaza Strip for nearly two decades, clearing the way for a technocratic committee to implement civilian rule.
The move marks a significant political shift by Hamas, which has run Gaza since its fighters seized control from rival Palestinian movement Fatah in 2007 after winning legislative elections the previous year.
Since a ceasefire took effect in Gaza last October between Hamas and Israel, the group has repeatedly said it is prepared to step aside from day-to-day governance, but the thorny issue of its disarmament remains unresolved.
