Fatah Central Committee member Jibril Rajoub has publicly labeled the Palestinian Authority’s decision to sideline a pro-Mohammed Dahlan sub-faction as a “mistake.” Speaking in Ramallah on June 3, 2026, Rajoub criticized the party’s handling of the Reformist Democratic Faction (RDF), arguing that disputes should have been resolved before the party’s recent conference.
Why is Fatah struggling with internal reconciliation?
The tension stems from a failed amnesty process. While PA President Mahmoud Abbas announced an amnesty for dismissed Fatah members last year, the party subsequently required applicants to submit letters acknowledging specific infractions. According to reports from The Times of Israel, members of the Dahlan-linked RDF largely refused these terms, leading to their exclusion from the Fatah conference held in May 2026. Rajoub noted that while the party had adopted a resolution to allow these members back, the process was meant to be handled “respectfully and with no humiliation.”
Despite his exile, Mohammed Dahlan remains a significant figure in Palestinian politics. He has been living in the United Arab Emirates since 2011, where he serves as a close adviser to President Mohammed bin Zayed.
What is the future of the Palestinian Authority leadership?
Internal power dynamics remain fluid as the PA faces severe economic pressure and a lack of elections. During the May conference, Hussein al-Sheikh was appointed deputy chairman of Fatah, a position for which Jibril Rajoub was also considered. Although Rajoub was the third most popular candidate in Central Committee voting, al-Sheikh—who holds the number two posts in both the PA and the Palestine Liberation Organization—secured the role. Rajoub declined to comment on the appointment, emphasizing instead his commitment to the party’s vision for a two-state solution.
How does the PA view potential ties with Hamas and Israel?
Rajoub maintains that while he supports national political unity, any deal with Hamas is conditional on the group surrendering power in Gaza and handing over its weapons. Regarding Israel, Rajoub remains sharply critical of the current government. He recently made headlines in April 2026 for refusing to shake hands with an Israeli Football Association representative at a FIFA conference, citing objections to Israeli policies. Rajoub stated firmly that the PA will not dismantle its institutions, even as it faces calls from some Israeli officials to collapse the authority.
Pro Tip: Tracking Political Shifts
Watch for updates regarding presidential and parliamentary elections. While President Abbas previously pledged to hold votes by the end of 2026, the timeline for the presidential election remains vague. Rajoub has expressed hope that elections might follow the November 1 parliamentary vote.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is Jibril Rajoub? He is a senior Fatah official, the secretary-general of Fatah, and the president of the Palestinian Football Association.
- Why was the Reformist Democratic Faction excluded from the conference? They refused to submit individual letters acknowledging infractions, a requirement added by the Fatah leadership after the initial amnesty announcement.
- What is the status of Mohammed Dahlan? He lives in exile in the UAE and was tried in absentia by a PA court on corruption charges, which his supporters maintain are politically motivated.
- Is the PA planning to collapse? No. Rajoub explicitly stated that the PA will not leave Palestine, surrender, or dismantle its institutions.
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