Palestinian leaders in the Israeli-occupied West Bank convened this week for the first time in years, with the aim of allowing President Mahmoud Abbas to appoint a longtime loyalist to a newly created senior position.
On Saturday night, Abbas officially named Hussein al-Sheikh, a close confidant, as his deputy. This promotion has prompted speculation among analysts; some believe it signals that Abbas, 89, has chosen al-Sheikh as his successor, while others view it as a superficial change intended to appease frustrated Arab officials.
Many Palestinians have criticized their leadership’s focus on internal politics amidst ongoing conflict in Gaza and a significant Israeli military operation in the northern West Bank, which has displaced tens of thousands. Ghaith al-Omari, a former adviser to Abbas, remarked, “The ship is sinking, and everyone’s fighting over who’s going to be seated at what table.”
According to local health officials, over 50,000 Palestinians have died in Israel’s campaign against Hamas in Gaza since the conflict erupted following Hamas’s attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 fatalities and about 250 hostages taken.
The ongoing war has drawn international attention to the Palestinian cause and triggered worldwide protests. However, the Palestinian Authority, perceived as frail and divided, has struggled to maintain its relevance as the internationally recognized representative of the Palestinians.
In a speech addressing the conference, Abbas reiterated familiar themes, condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza and criticizing Hamas, referring to its members as “sons of dogs” while demanding the release of hostages.
The Palestinian Authority was established during 1990s peace talks and governs parts of the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Many Palestinians had hoped it would lead to the establishment of an independent state, but negotiations have stalled due to escalating violence since the early 2000s.
Significant elements within the Israeli coalition advocate for continued Israeli control over the West Bank and Gaza, while Israel routinely confiscates portions of the Palestinian budget, impacting Abbas’s government financially.
Polls indicate that a vast majority of Palestinians desire Abbas’s resignation, with some supporting Hamas due to dissatisfaction with the Palestinian Authority’s diplomatic strategies. In response, Abbas has consolidated power and suppressed dissent.
Amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza, U.S. and Arab officials have encouraged Abbas to reform the authority. Many view it as the only viable alternative to Hamas and hope for its governance in Gaza post-conflict. However, Abbas has been reluctant to cede any power, as Palestinians have not held national elections since 2006, when his Fatah faction lost to Hamas.
Arab leaders have urged Abbas to seriously consider succession planning, including appointing a deputy to ensure continuity in leadership. During a summer 2024 meeting, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman specifically encouraged Abbas to appoint a vice president.
On Saturday, the executive committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization approved Abbas’s request to grant al-Sheikh the title of deputy chairman. Al-Sheikh also announced on social media that he now holds the title of “vice president of the State of Palestine.”
Political analyst Jehad Harb commented that Abbas’s primary aim appears to be alleviating pressure from Arab nations, though it remains uncertain if he is genuinely relinquishing power.
Saudi Arabia welcomed al-Sheikh’s appointment, expressing readiness to “strengthen the Palestinian political system.” Al-Sheikh is seen as a pragmatic moderate by Israeli and American counterparts, yet many Palestinians view him as a representation of the Palestinian Authority’s shortcomings and the stagnant political situation.
The potential outcome following Abbas’s death in office remains unclear, as he has not designated a clear successor, stepped down, or facilitated democratic elections, leading to a power struggle among senior Palestinian officials vying for influence before his passing.