The US is reportedly holding new talks aimed at strengthening relations with the Palestinian Authority, addressing the post-war order in Gaza, reconstruction plans, and regional normalization. These contacts are part of Washington's broader political initiatives in the region.
Discussions include the option of transferring billions of dollars in Palestinian Authority revenues held by the occupation administration to a Peace Council established by Washington. This council is expected to oversee the implementation of a twenty-point plan prepared by the US.
Governance and Reform Debate for Gaza
The plan reportedly includes granting the Palestinian Authority a role in Gaza's administration once necessary reforms are completed. Within this framework, the parties have also discussed possible arrangements regarding Gaza's governance mechanisms.
Washington is said to prefer limited and flexible formulas over a comprehensive and formal agreement on these issues, with methods like letter exchanges between parties taking precedence. This approach keeps negotiations moving forward with a phased framework rather than a binding text.
International Issues and Settlement Pressure on the Table
Another aspect of the talks involves US expectations that the Palestinian side halt efforts to expand the issue in international forums. In return, the Palestinian side demands an end to settlement expansion in the West Bank and prevention of settler violence.
Reopening the diplomatic representation office in Ramallah is also among the topics discussed. This office was closed during Donald Trump's first term.
Revenues, Prisoner Families, and Reform Pressure
One of the main obstacles in the talks is the reform process within the Palestinian Authority. In particular, the regulation of financial transfers to former prisoners and their families is a contentious issue between the parties.
US and Israeli assessments reportedly differ on the extent to which the desired reforms have been implemented. This divergence is said to directly affect the pace of negotiations.
These contacts appear to be part of a broader political plan linking the post-war Gaza order with regional diplomacy and reconstruction discussions. While Washington aims to integrate the Palestinian Authority more strongly into this new framework, the details of the process remain subject to ongoing negotiations.
