Kushner Advances Dahlan as Key Mediator Between Hamas and Ramallah

Mohammed Dahlan, a pivotal figure navigating relations among Hamas, Egypt, Gulf states, and the U.S. administration, has recently emerged as a central player in discussions about Gaza's future. On Sunday, Jared Kushner, envoy of the Trump administration, met with Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya in the presence of Dahlan. This meeting marked the next phase in implementing the American roadmap to end the conflict, which includes an Israeli withdrawal and the establishment of a national committee to manage and rehabilitate Gaza.

According to Ynet, the strengthening ties between Hamas and Dahlan's faction aim to integrate Hamas into a broader political framework rather than having it run independently in the planned November elections. Hamas official Hossam Badran confirmed ongoing talks to promote a "national alliance" involving Hamas, Dahlan's stream, and independent elements. For Hamas, this represents a way out of its isolated governance of Gaza, while for Dahlan, it offers a chance to regain political prominence without reliance on the Palestinian Authority in Ramallah.

The Palestinian Authority is closely monitoring these developments with concern. Donor countries pressuring the PA to hold elections view the emerging alliance positively. A senior PA official noted that Ramallah's economic crisis and the lack of a clear successor to Mahmoud Abbas (91) weaken the PLO against the new alliance. The official warned, "Israel did not want a 'Fatahstan'; the question is whether it will end up with a 'Hamastan' represented by Dahlan."

Meanwhile, Hamas announced its agreement to proceed to the second phase of the American roadmap. Dahlan, who communicates official progress messages while serving as a liaison between the Americans and Hamas, urged all Palestinian factions to avoid actions that could undermine the agreement with Israel.