In this weeks “Mid Atlantic,” host Roifield Brown and guest expert Mouin Rabbani explore Palestinian politics, with a special focus on the Palestinian Authority and Fatah under Mahmoud Abbas’s leadership. They look at the historical evolution of Fatah, the pivotal roles within the Palestine Liberation Organisation, and the controversial dynamics between the Palestinian factions and Israel. The discussion also touches upon the shifting public opinions and the internal and external pressures reshaping Palestinian governance and aspirations.

Show Notes:

1. Introduction to the Topic: Overview of Palestinian politics and the key focus on Mahmoud Abbas and Fatah.
2. Guest Introduction: Mouin Rabbani, former UN Special Envoy to Syria and a contributing editor to the Middle East Report.
3. Historical Context: The establishment of the Palestinian Authority through the Oslo Accords and its intended role.
4. Fatah’s Role and Evolution: Analysis of Fatah’s foundational principles and its impact on Palestinian politics and the PLO.
5. The Oslo Accords and Beyond: Discussion on the implications of the accords and the subsequent developments in Palestinian governance.
6. Current Challenges and Criticisms: Addressing the issues of legitimacy, effectiveness, and public perception of Mahmoud Abbas’s leadership.
7. The Future of Palestinian Politics: Expert insights into potential political shifts and the role of international interventions.
8. Audience Q&A: Engaging with listeners’ questions about the future of the Palestinian state and the broader geopolitical implications.

Further Reading

1. Al Jazeera’s “Palestinian Authority President Abbas fires occupied West Bank governors” discusses President Mahmoud Abbas’s decision to dismiss several governors in the West Bank, an act seen as an attempt to respond to political dissatisfaction within the region. The article provides insights into the internal political dynamics and the challenges faced by Abbas’s administration​ (Al Jazeera)​.
2. WRVO’s “What Palestinians in the West Bank think about the war — and Hamas” offers perspectives from Palestinians in the West Bank on their views about Hamas and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It gives voice to the sentiments of ordinary Palestinians living under the ongoing tensions and their views on the political strategies of their leaders​ (WRVO)​.
3. Another article from Al Jazeera titled “Abbas accused of power grab after Palestinian appointments” reports on accusations against Mahmoud Abbas of consolidating power through strategic appointments within the PLO. This article explores the reactions from various Palestinian factions and the implications for Palestinian politics​ (Al Jazeera)​.
4. The Times of Israel’s “Poll: Nearly 80% of Palestinians want Mahmoud Abbas to resign” reflects widespread discontent among Palestinians with Mahmoud Abbas’s leadership, illustrating the significant public pressure he faces amidst ongoing governance challenges​ (The Times of Israel)​.

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