Officials in the United States have been suggesting that the Palestinian Authority (PA) should take control of the Gaza Strip after Israel eliminates Hamas, the current ruling group in the territory. However, analysts believe that this proposal may not be realistic given the current state of the Israel-Hamas war. While the Biden administration has expressed support for the Israeli offensive, it has also indicated its desire to see the PA govern Gaza after the conflict. However, there are many obstacles to this plan, including opposition from Israel.
The PA was established in 1994 as part of the Oslo Accords, which aimed to transfer the occupied Palestinian territories from Israeli military control to civilian leadership. Despite this, the PA has faced challenges in effectively governing the West Bank and is facing criticism for its inability to resolve the conflict.
The current US push for the PA to rule over Gaza is seen as a response to mounting pressure over its support for Israel amid allegations of atrocities committed in Gaza. The US is also attempting to shift focus from the conflict to a resolution by asserting that the Palestinians should eventually govern Gaza themselves. However, this proposal has been met with skepticism and criticism, as there is doubt about the PA’s ability to effectively lead the Palestinian national movement.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed opposition to the idea of the PA taking over Gaza, instead insisting that Israel maintain security control in the region. Overall, the prospect of the PA ruling over Gaza post-conflict faces numerous challenges and uncertainties, and many are skeptical of the feasibility of this plan.