Hamas says any agreements with Israel and the U.S. hinge on reconciliation between Hamas and Abbas’ Fatah government. In an interview with the Israeli newspaper Haaretz, Hamas adviser Ahmed Yusef called on the U.S. to include Hamas in talks or realize any agreements would require its approval. Israel has previously rejected Hamas’ call for a long-term ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli troops and settlements to internationally recognized borders. In Gaza, local resident Hatem Hmoud said Palestinians have few expectations for Rice’s visit.

Hatem Hmoud: “Every time she comes to the Middle East, there is nothing but trouble. We’re used to it. Whether on the Palestinian level or on the Arab level, if there is anything she wants to offer, it needs to be clear and should not have any hidden agendas, so that the Palestinian people can get their full rights.”