By Mohammed Bello Doka.
In a significant diplomatic development, Ismail Haniyeh, the Head of the Political Bureau of Hamas, held a crucial meeting with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas in Ankara, Turkey. The discussion, under the leadership of Turkish President Recep Erdogan, aimed at finding common ground on various pressing issues. Here are the key takeaways from the meeting, as per an insider source cited by Al-Jazeera:
1. Potential Political Vision for Cairo Conference: President Abbas proposed a political vision that he plans to present during the upcoming Cairo Conference. This vision aims to garner broader support and is based on international legitimacy.
2. Strengthening the PLO: President Abbas emphasized the importance of inclusive participation within the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO). He invited all parties concerned to join forces and work towards a common goal.
3. Commitment to Peaceful Resistance: Acknowledging the significance of peaceful resistance, President Abbas reiterated his unwavering commitment to this approach. He firmly stated that the Palestinian Authority relies solely on non-violent means as their weapon against the occupation.
4. Hamas' Target: Ismail Haniyeh clarified to President Abbas that Hamas' focus remains directed at the Israeli occupation, without any intention of attacking or undermining the Palestinian Authority.
5. Detainees Issue: Haniyeh requested the urgent release of political detainees held in Palestinian Authority prisons. However, President Abbas rejected this appeal, linking it to further discussions during the upcoming General Secretaries meeting in Cairo.
In summary, Mahmoud Abbas outlined a vision for reconciliation based on international legitimacy and the conditions set out by the international quartet, which recognize and engage with the Israeli government while strictly condemning armed resistance. On the other hand, Haniyeh informed Abbas that Hamas is committed to resistance in all its forms and does not accept unilateral commitment to international "legitimacy".
This high-level meeting serves as a crucial step towards Palestinian reconciliation, fostering dialogue and setting the stage for potential future discussions aimed at unity and collaboration in the face of shared challenges.