Jenin: A Crucial Test for the Palestinian Authority

The recent Israeli military operation in the Jenin refugee camp has highlighted the weakened state of the Palestinian Authority (PA) and its diminishing relevance to Palestinians. The PA's decision to avoid engaging with Israeli forces during the operation has raised questions about its purpose and effectiveness. Palestinians view the institution as increasingly irrelevant and even hostile to their cause, while Israel undermines the PA by withholding resources and settlements continue to expand in the West Bank. With the PA retreating from asserting its jurisdiction, Palestinian militant groups are filling the void, leading to more frequent and deadlier Israeli military incursions. The political stagnation deepens with each cycle of violence, and the West Bank risks becoming increasingly similar to Gaza.