Head of Gaza technocratic panel laments loss of life in Gaza, doesn’t assign blame

By Jacob Magid

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1 February 2026, 9:22 pm

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Jacob Magid is The Times of Israel's US bureau chief

Ali Shaath, head of the Palestinian technocratic committee for managing the Gaza Strip, seen in Cairo, Egypt, on January 19, 2026. (AFP)

The head of the Palestinian technocratic committee slated to replace Hamas in Gaza laments the loss of life in Gaza over the weekend.

“The loss of life in Gaza over the past few days is excruciating—our condolences to the families who are grieving,” National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG) chief commissioner Ali Shaath says in a statement that avoids assigning blame to either Israel or Hamas.

Israel said it carried out airstrikes in Gaza in response to Hamas violations of the October ceasefire. Over 30 people were reportedly killed, including children.

“We call on all sides to uphold the ceasefire. NCAG is committed with partners to prevent further incidents and protect civilians. The path forward must be one of restraint, responsibility, and respect for civilian life,” Shaath says.