Hamas is seeking Russia’s support to pressure the Palestinian Authority (PA) into negotiating a national unity government for the Gaza Strip.
On October 23, Hamas Political Bureau member Mousa Abu Marzouk met with Russian Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Mikhail Bogdanov in Moscow, requesting that Russia urge PA President Mahmoud Abbas to discuss a shared governance structure.
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This move by Hamas likely comes in response to a United Arab Emirates (UAE)-backed proposal for Gaza’s post-war administration, which suggests a reformed PA led by an independent prime minister. Under this plan, Hamas would be excluded from governance.
By negotiating a unity government, however, Hamas could secure a role in post-war Gaza administration, potentially allowing the group to strengthen its influence over time.
Meanwhile, U.S. and Israeli officials are preparing to resume discussions in Qatar for a ceasefire-hostage exchange deal. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Qatari Foreign Affairs Minister Mohamad bin Abdulrahman al Thani confirmed the talks on October 24, with al Thani noting Qatar’s re-engagement with Hamas following the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar.
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Separately, a Hamas delegation traveled to Egypt on October 24 as senior Hamas official Khalil al Hayya reiterated the group’s firm negotiating position.
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