A Palestinian Authority official, Mohammad Hamdan, predicted that President-elect Donald Trump will “destroy Iran,” causing the weakening of Tehran and ultimately breaking down the remaining Hamas terror cells. Hamdan, who is the secretary-general of the PA’s ruling Fatah Party, made these comments during a meeting with the New York Post in Nablus. The PA forces in the West Bank have been conducting security operations against armed extremists aligned with Hamas, following a recent incident where a group of extremists stole PA vehicles and paraded them through the streets of Jenin while waving Hamas and ISIS flags. Since then, PA forces have killed at least three extremists and vowed to eliminate the rest.
In 2006, Hamas seized control of the Gaza Strip after Fatah suffered a major defeat in the election. Hamas launched repeated attacks on Israel, culminating in a coordinated attack on southern Israel in 2023, resulting in the death of over 1,200 people and the taking of hostages. Since then, Israel has decimated Hamas in Gaza, leading the PA, backed by Western governments, to position itself to potentially resume governance of Gaza once the war ends. The PA accuses Hamas of rejecting international legitimacy and refusing to accept UN resolutions. The PA security forces recently increased their presence in Jenin, a known terrorist stronghold, following the security operations.
At least three PA security force members have been killed, including a captain in the intelligence services, during armed clashes with extremists, and dozens of people have been arrested. PA leaders interviewed by the Post condemned Israel’s increased settlements in the West Bank but expressed support for the Jewish state’s right to exist. Hamdan stated that PA President Mahmoud Abbas still supports realistic relations with the Americans in order to achieve the aspirations of the Palestinians. He also argued that failed U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East has contributed to the growing Islamic extremism, citing examples from Syria and Afghanistan.
Regarding post-war Gaza governance, an Israeli official suggested that the PA remains an option but would need to address issues such as corruption and funding terrorism against Israeli settlers in the West Bank. The official noted that the PA could have an opportunity to return to its control of the Palestinian territories, with its opposition to Hamas providing unique leverage in post-war talks. Despite the differences between the PA and Hamas, the PA sees itself as a potential partner in achieving peace and stability in the region. The situation remains complex and delicate, as various factions vie for control and influence in the Palestinian territories.
In conclusion, tensions between the PA, Hamas, and Israel continue to shape the political landscape in the Middle East. The PA’s efforts to combat extremism and establish security in the West Bank are ongoing, while Hamas remains a potent force in the region. The involvement of the U.S. and other Western governments adds another layer of complexity to the situation, as different parties negotiate and maneuver for control. The future of Gaza governance remains uncertain, with various stakeholders having different interests and priorities. The PA’s opposition to Hamas, combined with its support for international legitimacy and cooperation, positions it as a potential key player in future negotiations and regional stability efforts.
