Palestinian National Authority facts for kids
The Palestinian National Authority (often called the PA or PNA) is a group that helps govern parts of the West Bank. It was created in 1994 by an agreement called the Gaza-Jericho agreement. This agreement was part of bigger peace talks known as the Oslo Accords from 1993.
At first, the PA was meant to rule both the Gaza Strip and parts of the West Bank. However, after elections in 2006 and a conflict in Gaza in 2007 between two main political groups, Fatah and Hamas, the PA mostly controlled areas in the West Bank. Since 2013, the Fatah-led Palestinian Authority has started using the name "State of Palestine" on its official papers.
Contents
What is the Palestinian Authority?
The Palestinian National Authority is like a government for some areas where Palestinians live. It was set up to manage daily life, such as schools, hospitals, and roads, in certain parts of the West Bank. Its goal was to help Palestinians have more control over their own lives and land.
How the PA was Formed
The idea for the Palestinian Authority came from peace talks between Israelis and Palestinians. These talks led to the Oslo Accords in 1993. These agreements were a big step towards peace. They planned for Palestinians to have their own self-governing body.
The Gaza-Jericho Agreement
Following the Oslo Accords, the Gaza-Jericho agreement was signed in 1994. This agreement officially created the Palestinian National Authority. It gave the PA power to govern the Gaza Strip and the city of Jericho in the West Bank. This was the start of the PA's role in the region.
Changes in Control
Over time, the areas controlled by the Palestinian Authority changed. This happened because of political events and conflicts.
Elections and Divisions
In 2006, there were important elections in the Palestinian territories. The Hamas group won many seats. This led to disagreements with the Fatah group, which had been in charge.
The Gaza Conflict of 2007
These disagreements grew into a conflict in Gaza in 2007. After this, Hamas took control of the Gaza Strip. This meant the Palestinian Authority, led by Fatah, mainly controlled areas in the West Bank.
The Name "State of Palestine"
Since January 2013, the Palestinian Authority has started using the name "State of Palestine" on its official documents. This shows their hope for a future independent state.
Images for kids
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Yitzhak Rabin, Bill Clinton and Yasser Arafat at the Oslo Accords signing ceremony on 13 September 1993.
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CIA map of areas governed by the Palestinian Authority, July 2008.
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The Palestinian legislative election in 2006, showing Hamas (green) and Fatah (yellow) results.
See also
In Spanish: Autoridad Nacional Palestina para niños
