Hebron Sheikhs Call for Peace with Israel and Break from Palestinian Authority
Five prominent Palestinian religious leaders from Hebron, including Wadi al-Jaabari, have proposed the creation of a new local governance model — the «Hebron Emirates» — as an alternative to the Palestinian Authority. The Wall Street Journal reported the development, citing a letter addressed to Israeli Economy Minister Nir Barkat.
In the letter, the sheikhs offered to recognise Israel as a Jewish state, renounce support for terrorism and join the Abraham Accords — a regional normalisation initiative between Israel and several Arab countries. In return, they ask Israel to recognise the Hebron Emirates as the official representative of the Arab population in the area.
According to the signatories, the Palestinian Authority has «lost legitimacy» among locals and failed to deliver stability or development. They also criticised the Oslo Accords, calling them «destructive and outdated».
«We are ready for peace. We want to move forward,» the WSJ quoted the letter.
Minister Barkat confirmed holding several meetings with the sheikhs and welcomed the proposal. He described the move as a «historic step» that could reshape the framework for Middle East diplomacy.
As efforts toward a two-state solution remain stalled, the Hebron sheikhs’ initiative may signal a growing demand among segments of the Palestinian population for alternative forms of self-governance and engagement with Israel.
