Mahmoud Abbas

The head of Hamas has called for direct talks with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and endorsed a roadmap for Gaza's future, in a significant political overture between the rival Palestinian factions. The move signals a possible thaw in years of tensions over who should govern Gaza after the war. Observers are watching whether the gesture will translate into concrete negotiations on Palestinian unity.

A senior Hamas leader accused Israel of exploiting bloodshed in Gaza for political gain ahead of Israeli elections. At the same time, he signalled that Hamas is ready to sit down with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, raising the prospect of renewed talks on Palestinian reconciliation and the situation in Gaza.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has extended the candidacy nomination period for the planned legislative elections, according to Anadolu Agency. The move gives political factions and candidates additional time to register ahead of the vote, which would be the first Palestinian legislative election since 2006. Observers are watching closely for signs the long-delayed elections will actually take place.