Who / What
The Palestinian Authority (PA), officially the Palestinian National Authority (PNA), is an interim government created under the Oslo Accords to administer Palestinian enclaves in the West Bank and, until 2006, the Gaza Strip. Controlled by the Fatah party, it exercises partial civil control over these territories.
Background & History
The PA was established in 1993–1995 as a result of the Oslo Accords, which began a process of limited self‑rule for Palestinians. It operated the Gaza Strip until the 2006 Palestinian elections, after which Hamas seized de facto control of Gaza. Despite losing governance over the Strip, the PA continues to claim it, and it remains recognized by some governments and international bodies as a governing entity.
Why Notable
The PA serves as the primary international interlocutor for the Palestinian people, representing them in diplomatic and legal arenas. Its declaration of the “State of Palestine” on official documents, starting in January 2013, has bolstered its claim to statehood and elevated its status within the United Nations. The PA’s governance structures and agreements with Israel have a lasting impact on the region’s political dynamics and attempts at achieving a two‑state solution.
In the News
Recent discussions focus on the PA’s continued claim over Gaza, which remains under Hamas control, and on its role in mediating between Palestinians and Israel. The 2013 adoption of the “State of Palestine” designation in official documents has maintained international relevance, especially in debates about recognition and statehood within global institutions.
