- August 19, 2024
- 10:14 pm
- Middle East
Mahmoud Abbas, the head of the Palestinian National Authority (PNA), unexpectedly announced his intention to visit the Gaza Strip for the first time since 2007, when Hamas seized power there. Abbas announced this decision on August 17 at an extraordinary session of the Turkish parliament, immediately after his visit to Moscow.In his speech, he said “we have no other choice” and called on world leaders, including the UN secretary general, to also come to Gaza to ensure Palestinian leadership access to the region.
According to Abbas, the purpose of his visit is to “confirm the unity of the Palestinian territories, including the West Bank, Gaza and East Jerusalem.” The PLO has already informed Israel and the US of the need to ensure security for this visit. However, the Israeli side has met this idea with caution.
Abbas’s visit, many analysts say, is not simply a matter of concern for “Palestinian unity.” His trip to Moscow, where he reportedly “came to consult with old friends,” may point to deeper political motives. The visit may have been coordinated with Russia, which has an interest in maintaining tensions in the Middle East.
Moscow benefits from large-scale military actions in the region, which can distract the world community from other problems, such as the war in Ukraine. According to sources, Russia does not seek peace talks, but is interested in continuing the conflict. In this context, Abbas's visit to Gaza may be part of Russia's strategy to complicate the peace process.
Abbas may also use the visit to strengthen his political position. His approval ratings among the Palestinians, like those of the PNA as a whole, are extremely low, while Hamas's popularity is growing. In a situation where the possible release from Israeli prison of Marwan Barghouti, one of the leaders of Fatah, could further weaken Abbas's position, the visit is an attempt to remind people of his position and maintain influence.
However, Abbas's visit to Gaza does not guarantee him a political victory. As Arab media outlets note, his move, although “made 17 years late,” may not find support among the Palestinians, and Hamas is not ready to accept Abbas with open arms.
However, Putin probably sees this visit as an opportunity to continue his policy of destabilization in the Middle East. In this context, Abbas' visit could become not only an important step in Palestinian policy, but also a tool in Moscow's hands to achieve its geopolitical goals.
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