Palestinian factions Hamas and Fatah signed a declaration in Beijing to end a long-standing rift, a crucial step toward resolving deep divisions amid the ongoing Gaza conflict.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi highlighted achieving unity among 14 factions, emphasizing PLO's role as the sole representative.

The Beijing Declaration signifies a shift in Palestinian factions' perception of internal and regional order. Failure to unify may lead to external divide and conquer tactics. China's facilitation showcases its nonconfrontational approach, aligning with regional interests, according to Liu Xinlu, dean of the School of Arabic Studies at Beijing Foreign Studies University.

Li Xinggang, a research fellow at the Institute for Studies on the Mediterranean Rim at Zhejiang International Studies University, echoed the view that China's positive role is pivotal in this process, adding this event may help ease tensions in Gaza, which is crucial for post-war governance.

He also said achieving true unity demands sustained efforts from all factions and international support.