Hamas says open to Gaza peacekeeping force, but rejects interference in ‘internal affairs’

Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem tells AFP that his group is open to international peacekeeping forces in Gaza, but rejects any interference in the territory’s “internal affairs.”

“Our position on international forces is clear: we want peacekeeping forces that monitor the ceasefire, ensure its implementation, and act as a buffer between the occupation army and our people in the Gaza Strip, without interfering in Gaza’s internal affairs,” Qassem says.

Hamas had initially come out fervently against the International Stabilization Force when it was initially laid out last year by the US in its 20-point plan for ending the Gaza war. The terror group appears to be softening its stance now that the ISF is coming together and five countries have agreed to contribute troops to the force.