The historic meeting, brokered by China, took place in Beijing and involved representatives from Hamas, Fatah, and 12 other Palestinian factions.

This latest reconciliation deal between Hamas and Fatah comes after years of fracture and failed attempts at unity. The deep divide between the factions began in 2007 when Hamas forcefully ousted Fatah from Gaza, leading to a Hamas-led government in the territory.

Israel, however, has ruled out any role for Hamas or Fatah in governing Gaza after the ongoing hostilities. Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz swiftly dismissed the Beijing declaration, expressing concerns over Mahmoud Abbas, the Fatah leader, embracing Hamas. Israel maintains that it will continue its offensive until Hamas is destroyed.

Nevertheless, China has persisted in its efforts to broker peace in the Israel-Hamas conflict and sees Palestinian unity as crucial to achieving that goal. China, a long-standing supporter of the Palestinian cause, hosted talks between Hamas and Fatah earlier this year.

Hamas spokesman Hossam Badran has hailed the declaration as a positive step towards Palestinian national unity. The agreement focuses on Palestinian demands for a ceasefire, complete withdrawal from Gaza, relief, reconstruction, and the formation of a Palestinian national consensus government that would manage affairs in Gaza and the West Bank, oversee reconstruction efforts, and pave the way for elections.

While Fatah has yet to comment on the declaration, its representative Mahmoud al-Aloul thanked China for their support of the Palestinian cause after the announcement.

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi outlined a three-step plan to address the conflict, including promoting a lasting ceasefire, upholding the principle of Palestinians governing Palestine, and recognizing the state of Palestine as part of a two-state solution with full UN membership.

China's active involvement in the Middle East, particularly in the Israel-Hamas conflict, underscores Beijing's aspirations as a global player. The country has been striving to establish itself as an alternative to US hegemonic leadership, as evidenced by its efforts to restore ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia last year.

The declaration signed by Hamas and Fatah is a notable expression of intent, although major obstacles remain in the path to achieving true Palestinian unity. However, China's continued support and involvement provide hope for a future resolution to the long-standing conflict.