Palestinian Authority Critiques Qatar’s National Conference for Palestine

The Palestinian Authority has condemned the “National Conference for Palestine” in Doha, alleging attempts to weaken the PLO. Despite promoting non-Hamas figures, links to Hamas were evident, and there were calls for resistance against Israeli occupation. The PA expressed strong disapproval, labeling the conference a betrayal and restricting access to participants.

The Palestinian Authority has expressed vehement opposition to the “National Conference for Palestine” held in Doha, accusing the organizers of attempting to weaken the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). The conference, organized in mid-February by notable Palestinian figures aimed at rebuilding the PLO on democratic grounds, has been met with substantial political criticism. Opponents challenge its legitimacy and denounce Qatar’s involvement, claiming that the event serves as a platform for specific Palestinian factions and abandoned the ideals of armed resistance.

Despite the location in Qatar, known for hosting Hamas leaders, the conference attempted to highlight non-Hamas figures. Notable attendees included Mustafa Barghouti, who leads the ‘National Palestinian Initiative,’ and individuals affiliated with Fatah. However, connections to Hamas were evident, with members of Hamas-linked organizations participating in the steering committee and speakers at the event. Notably, key broadcasting outlets were also associated with Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad, indicating underlying ties to militant groups.

The event also featured open support for violence with pre-recorded messages from figures such as PFLP founder Salah Salah, praising imprisoned militants and terrorist leaders. Organizers suggested the PLO has been sidelined since the Oslo Accords, asserting that the Palestinian Authority is compromised and intertwined with Israeli interests. They claim Hamas deserves a more prominent role within the PLO and that any negotiations should not proceed without first resisting occupation.

While organizers presented the conference as a call for unity, many supporters of the Palestinian Authority condemned it as betrayal. The PA reportedly obstructed access for over thirty participants to attend the Doha conference. Public sentiment included strong denunciations of participants, labeling them as unfaithful agents representing self-interest rather than the Palestinian cause, which has opened a broader conversation regarding governance and representation in Palestinian politics.

In summation, the “National Conference for Palestine” has incited significant backlash from the Palestinian Authority, reflecting deep divisions within Palestinian politics. While the conference aimed at fostering unity and incorporating broader representation, it faced accusations of undermining established entities like the PLO and fostering ties with controversial political factions. This evolving dialogue highlights the complexities surrounding Palestinian leadership and the challenges of navigating internal and external political landscapes.

Original Source: www.jpost.com