Palestinian Authority under pressure amid rising resistance, popularity of Iran-backed terror groups
The Palestinian Authority (PA) is facing a significant challenge in the northern West Bank city of Jenin as it launches an operation against local terror factions supported by Iran. This crackdown has led to violent clashes and highlighted the deepening divide between the PA and local communities.
“Iran has been funding militants to buy weapons, and now the Palestinian Authority is taking action to stop that. They have implemented measures to block the flow of money and crack down on these factions,” explained Mohammad Daraghmeh, Asharq News bureau chief in Ramallah. “The PA is aware that Iran will continue to support Hamas and Islamic Jihad, and this presents a major challenge for them. It is crucial to confront Iran, especially in the aftermath of recent conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon.”
The United States has reportedly sought Israel’s approval to provide urgent military assistance to the PA as it intensifies its crackdown on terror groups in Jenin. The Biden administration aims to supply the PA security forces with essential items such as ammunition, helmets, bulletproof vests, and armored vehicles. However, Israel’s consent is required before proceeding with this assistance. Historically, U.S. aid to the PA has ranged from $200 million to $300 million annually, with a resumption of aid in recent years following a freeze during the Trump administration.
Dr. Michael Milshtein, head of the Forum for Palestinian Studies at Tel Aviv University, highlighted the increased activity from Hamas and Islamic Jihad in the region, with significant Iranian backing since October 7th. “Efforts to manufacture rockets and launch attacks on Israeli cities from Jenin have been detected, indicating that the city is evolving into a central hub for terrorists,” Milshtein stated.
The PA’s security forces recently eliminated Yazid Jaysa, an Islamic Jihad commander, in an operation that has further escalated tensions in the region. This incident, along with the killing of 19-year-old Rahbi Shalabi during clashes between PA forces and militants, has exacerbated discontent among residents of the Jenin refugee camp.
Despite attempts by the PA to enter the refugee camp, they have faced resistance from militants inside. The situation has left PA forces stranded outside the camp, unable to proceed with their operation. Milshtein noted that the PA lacks the capability to enforce control in northern Samaria and surrounding areas, creating a significant vacuum in the region.
The ongoing crackdown in Jenin reflects the PA’s efforts to assert its authority and legitimacy, particularly in light of potential political developments in Gaza. With Gaza under Hamas control since 2007, the PA hopes to demonstrate its ability to restore order in the West Bank, strengthening its position for any future political scenarios in Gaza.
While the conflict in Jenin remains contained for now, it serves as a critical test for the PA’s ability to maintain control within its territory. The situation underscores the complex dynamics at play in the region and the challenges the PA faces in navigating these turbulent times.
