The Palestinian National Authority has stressed that discussions about rebuilding the Gaza Strip will not take priority while the war persists. Officials indicate that securing a broader ceasefire in Gaza remains the immediate focus, framing any reconstruction talks as contingent on future political breakthroughs rather than current strategy. In remarks attributed to Mahmoud al-Habbash, an advisor to the president of Palestine, the position was made clear: no deep dives into Gaza’s long-term future should occur while the conflict is ongoing. The emphasis is squarely on achieving a ceasefire first, with consideration of broader regional realities to follow. (citation: Palestinian Authority official statements, reported through RIA News)
Al-Habbash did add a balancing condition to the pause on reconstruction talks. He indicated that any decision about Gaza’s future would have to involve both the West Bank and Jerusalem. He argued that a lasting resolution requires the establishment of a Palestinian state and an end to what he described as Israeli occupation. The message underscores a belief that peace cannot be carved out in stages that exclude critical territorial and political elements, and that any sustainable outcome must reflect the rights and aspirations of Palestinians across the territory. (citation: statements summarized from RIA News)
Meanwhile, international voices connected to the conflict weighed in on the question of a continued Israeli presence in Gaza. In a separate interview, the Israeli president outlined a different calculation, suggesting that a withdrawal would create a security vacuum which no responsible leadership could allow. He stressed that Israeli forces would remain in the strip to prevent a relapse into a dangerous heuristic—turning Gaza into a haven for armed groups. The president emphasized that the aim was not to occupy indefinitely but to prevent a situation where militant factions could again use Gaza as a base. (citation: official remarks reported by international media)
Across the Atlantic, senior U.S. officials offered clarifications on the U.S. position. A concise briefing articulated that the United States did not anticipate or endorse a full-scale invasion of Gaza, signaling support for a measured approach to ending hostilities and addressing humanitarian needs. The official statement highlighted the desire to avoid a further escalation while maintaining regional stability and supporting civilian protection. (citation: remarks from the U.S. Secretary of State, as reported by multiple outlets)