The Question of Palestine After International Recognition: Challenges of Governance and Leadership

Following the recognition of a Palestinian state by several major Western countries such as the UK, Canada, Australia, and Portugal, a critical question arises: Who will govern this state? What are the challenges it faces, given the absence of a "functional government" and a "defined territory," both essential criteria for statehood under the 1933 Montevideo Convention?

With two rival governments, one in the West Bank (the Palestinian Authority led by Mahmoud Abbas) and the other in Gaza (Hamas), Palestinians face a significant internal challenge. Palestinian politics have been frozen since 2007, and no presidential or parliamentary elections have been held since 2006.

Absence of Leadership and Fragmented Territory

Although the Palestinian people have expressed a desire for new leadership, the political reality is becoming increasingly complex. The Palestinian leadership, both at home and abroad, suffers from historical rifts and accusations of corruption that have tarnished its reputation. The geographical and political division between the West Bank and Gaza, coupled with the continuous expansion of Israeli settlements, has fragmented Palestinian territories, making it difficult to establish a viable state.

In this context, one figure has emerged as a potential leader: Marwan Barghouti. A recent poll showed he enjoys widespread popularity among Palestinians, but he has been imprisoned in Israel since 2002. While there have been discussions about his potential release in a prisoner exchange deal, Israel has shown no indication it is willing to let him go.

Netanyahu and the Israeli Position

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has long opposed the establishment of a Palestinian state. He recently reaffirmed that the Palestinian Authority would have no role in the future governance of Gaza. Israel continues to expand its settlements, which complicates the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state. In these circumstances, Palestinian historian Yezid Sayigh believes that "success becomes impossible" even with a new leadership in place.

Is International Recognition Enough?

Many experts argue that international recognition, while symbolic and important, is not enough on its own. The recognizing countries are now called upon to take "concrete, time-bound steps" to translate this recognition into a reality on the ground, such as unifying Gaza and the West Bank, supporting the Palestinian Authority, and holding elections. However, the obstacles are immense, given the strong opposition from Israel and the position of former U.S. President Donald Trump, who differs with Netanyahu on this issue and appears to favor his own plan for the reconstruction of Gaza, which does not specify a role for the Palestinian Authority.