Abbas sets condition for PA's return to Gaza: A political solution

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas stated that the PA could regain power in the Gaza Strip if a comprehensive political solution is reached in the Israel-Palestine conflict. Israel seeks to remove Hamas from control of Gaza, a sentiment supported by the US. Hamas took over Gaza in 2007 after winning a parliamentary election, while the PA has been blocked from exercising real power. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during his visit to the region, expressed that the PA should play a central role in the future of Gaza. The US is committed to providing aid to Gaza but has opposed a ceasefire, instead supporting a "pause" for humanitarian aid and limited border crossings.