In the midst of the ongoing war in Gaza, there is little enthusiasm among the people for a Palestinian Authority (PA) government, despite President Mahmoud Abbas’s suggestion that the PA might be open to returning to Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently stated that Israel would govern the security of the Gaza Strip for an “indefinite period,” sparking a debate on what the future of the besieged strip might look like.
Israel and the United States have insisted that Hamas, the current governing power in Gaza, cannot be allowed to continue ruling the strip after their attack on southern Israel in October 7, which resulted in a high number of casualties. On the other hand, Abbas called for a ceasefire in Gaza and expressed willingness for the PA to return to the enclave as part of a future political settlement.
However, the people of Gaza have mixed opinions on the prospect of the PA taking power, especially considering Hamas has been in control for the past 17 years. Some individuals, like Mohamed and Kamal, express skepticism towards the PA’s ability to protect and benefit Gaza, citing the PA’s previous actions and the ongoing hardships in the West Bank. They believe a national unity government, including Hamas and other Palestinian factions, would be a better solution.
Somaia emphasizes that the priority should be dismantling the occupation and military rule across the occupied territories. Only then can the chosen governing power in Gaza effectively address the needs of the people. Abu Hakeem, on the other hand, argues that the question of whether the PA can take power is not a priority for the people in the midst of the war; their immediate concern is the safety of their families.
Ahmed highlights the urgent need for basic human rights, such as employment, electricity, clean water, freedom of movement, and access to medical care. Only when these needs are met and the people can enjoy a better quality of life will the legitimacy of any ruling power come into consideration.
Overall, the people of Gaza appear cautious and skeptical about the prospect of the PA taking power, focusing more on the immediate challenges they face and their desire for a resolution to the ongoing conflict.