Palestinian Authority Appoints New Deputy Amid Growing Tensions

The recent appointment of Hussein al-Sheikh as deputy to President Mahmoud Abbas highlights internal division within the Palestinian Authority, drawing skepticism given the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis affecting Palestinians.

Mahmoud Abbas, the 89-year-old president of the Palestinian Authority, recently appointed Hussein al-Sheikh, a trusted ally, as his deputy in a significant move during a time of escalating violence in Gaza. The announcement followed a rare meeting of Palestinian leaders from the Israeli-occupied West Bank and was perceived by some analysts as an indication of Abbas hinting at a succession plan for the leadership. Others regarded it as merely a superficial change aimed at appeasing Arab leadership frustrated with the Palestinian Authority's effectiveness.

As violent conflict continues to rage, with the Israeli military operation in northern West Bank displacing tens of thousands and a dire humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza – where over 50,000 Palestinians have reportedly lost their lives in the ongoing Israeli campaign against Hamas – many ordinary Palestinians have expressed dissatisfaction. They believe the leadership is out of touch, focusing on internal power struggles rather than addressing the pressing crises. Ghaith al-Omari, a former advisor to Abbas, criticized the leadership’s priorities, stating, “The ship is sinking, and everyone’s fighting over who’s going to be seated at what table."

While tensions have heightened since Hamas launched an attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in 1,200 Israeli deaths and around 250 hostages taken, the Palestinian Authority's role as the Palestinians' internationally recognized representative has come under scrutiny, as many feel it is struggling to maintain relevance amidst the chaos. Protests supporting the Palestinian cause have erupted worldwide, but this has only served to underline the challenges facing the beleaguered leadership, now grappling with its legitimacy and the future direction of Palestinian governance.