Several Palestinian factions are denying any links to a joint document opposing Egypt’s role in maintaining security in the Palestinian Authority (PA) after Israel’s planned withdrawal from Gaza.
Fatah, the party headed by PA Chairman Yassir Arafat denied signing the statement, which was made public on Tuesday.
Ten factions signed the joint statement, including Islamic Jihad, Hamas, Fatah, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), and the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine (DFLP).
The document rejected any Arab party playing a role in securing the Gaza Strip once Israel leaves the area.
Hinting at Egypt and Jordan, the document said they expect Arabs to act according to logic of support rather than logic of security. They said the situation gives the false impression that the problem lies with the Palestinian people, rather than with what they called the occupation.
Egypt has been playing a pivotal role in the run-up to the planned Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Egypt wishes to train local Palestinian security forces in a bid to prevent a situation whereby militant factions will take control over the area and anarchy will prevail.
Fatah has denied any connection to the alleged document according to the Palestinian daily Al-Quds. Fatah said it maintains its official position that welcomes Israel’s withdrawal from Palestinian land and values Egypt’s efforts and support.
A Fatah member said the organization rejects the contents of the document.
The PFLP confirmed it signed the paper but denied reports that its military wing plans to confront Egyptian security experts in Gaza.
A member of the Palestinian People’s Party also denied the organization signed the document.