Russia invites Hamas and other Palestinian factions for talks

Russia has extended an invitation to Hamas, Fatah, and various other Palestinian factions for discussions in Moscow, focusing on the conflict between Israel and Hamas and other Middle Eastern concerns. This move comes as Russia, historically a mediator in the region, shows increasing disapproval of Israel and its allies amidst the conflict in Gaza.

Scheduled for February 29, the meeting aims to facilitate dialogue among Palestinian groups, as reported by TASS, the state-run news agency. Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov, also the Middle East envoy for President Vladimir Putin, emphasized the inclusivity of the invitation, reaching out to political forces from Syria, Lebanon, and beyond.

Participants are set to include members from Hamas, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Fatah, and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO).

The invitation follows a tumultuous period initiated by a Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, which led to substantial casualties. Retaliatory actions by Israel have resulted in significant loss of life in Gaza, with the health ministry there reporting thousands of deaths, predominantly among women and children.

In response to the escalating violence, Putin has advocated for a ceasefire, and Russia has voiced strong criticism against Israel’s military actions in Gaza since the onset of hostilities. These developments have strained the relationship between Russia and Israel, further complicated by Russia’s alliances with Iran and Hamas.