The Palestinian Authority President, Mahmoud Abbas, has formally asked Hamas's Ismail Haniyeh to form the next Palestinian government.
Mr Haniyeh was earlier chosen by Hamas to be the next Prime Minister. He will have up to five weeks to form an administration.
It follows the Hamas victory over Fatah in last month's elections and the convening of the new parliament at the weekend.
Earlier, a senior political leader with Hamas, Khaled Meshaal, said Iran will play an increasing role in Palestinian affairs once the new government is established.
The United States and Israel have expressed concern over Iran's influence.
