Hamas said that the main obstacle hindering the reconciliation is that Fatah’s leadership perceives reconciliation as an opportunity to strengthen its position in the lead not to build a national partnership. Hazem Qasem, Hamas’ spokesperson, tweeted that when Fatah’s leadership abandons the method of ruling solo and reforms the institutions through elections, a real conciliation can come to life. Rawhi Fatouh, member in Fatah’s Central Committee, said that Fatah is committed to the agreement they made in Istanbul and that Khalil Al-Hayya’s statement was an attempt to deceive the public opinion and clearly reflects Hamas’ rejection of Istanbul’s agreements, and that there are leaders in the Gaza Strip who are trying to hinder the reconciliation. Fatouh said Fatah is waiting for a letter from Hamas’ Political Office to initiate national dialogue. There will be room for all factions to discuss all the issues, including the agreements signed with the occupation.