Introduction
The Palestinian political scene has long been shaped by internal division, primarily between the two dominant factions: Fatah and Hamas. These internal fractures have weakened the broader Palestinian movement and disrupted governance in both the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. In recent years, there have been numerous attempts to repair these rifts, though lasting unity remains elusive. This article traces recent developments in intra-Palestinian relations, with a focus on key events and political maneuvers from 2022 to 2025.
Background of the Division
Fatah-Hamas Split – June 2007
The divide between Fatah and Hamas became fully entrenched in June 2007, when Hamas seized control of the Gaza Strip following violent clashes with Fatah. This marked the beginning of a political and territorial split: Fatah retained control of the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank, while Hamas governed Gaza independently.
Reconciliation Attempts Prior to 2022
Over the years, there have been several attempts to restore unity between Fatah and Hamas. Agreements were signed in Mecca (2007), Cairo (2011, 2017), and Doha (2012), among others. However, these deals repeatedly failed due to unresolved issues related to power-sharing, control over security forces, and political recognition.
Key Recent Developments (2022–2025)
The Algiers Declaration – October 13, 2022
On October 13, 2022, fourteen Palestinian factions, including both Fatah and Hamas, signed the Algiers Declaration in Algeria. The agreement called for legislative and presidential elections to be held within one year, and for the formation of a unified government. Despite the strong language of the agreement, its implementation was derailed by the eruption of war between Israel and Hamas in October 2023.
War in Gaza – October 7, 2023
On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, triggering a massive military response. This marked the beginning of a devastating war in Gaza, which shifted the focus of Palestinian politics away from internal reconciliation and toward survival and defense. The conflict further strained relations between factions, as blame was cast and priorities shifted.
Tulkarm Clashes – July 3, 2024
On July 3, 2024, the attempted arrest of Abu Shujaa, a local militant leader, by Palestinian Authority security forces in the Tulkarm refugee camp ignited significant unrest. Armed confrontations between militants and PA forces broke out, with local civilians taking to the streets in protest. The incident became a symbol of growing discontent with the PA’s authority in the West Bank.
Spread of West Bank Unrest – July 4–10, 2024
In the days following the Tulkarm incident, clashes spread across several West Bank cities, including Tubas, Nablus, Jenin, and Bethlehem. Protesters accused the PA of repression and mismanagement, and tensions escalated between armed groups and security forces. The unrest exposed deep fractures not only between political factions, but also between the population and their local leadership.
Beijing Declaration – July 27, 2024
On July 27, 2024, a major political milestone was reached when Palestinian factions, including Fatah and Hamas, signed the Beijing Declaration in China. The agreement called for the formation of an interim unity government to oversee Gaza and the West Bank, with the goal of national elections and institutional integration. The declaration reignited hopes for reconciliation, although its outcomes remain uncertain.
Public Discontent and Polls – March 2024
A public opinion poll conducted in March 2024 revealed deep dissatisfaction among Palestinians. Over 80% expressed disapproval of President Mahmoud Abbas’s leadership, and nearly the same percentage supported his resignation. The poll highlighted the disconnect between political elites and the general population, fueling calls for reform and new leadership.
Barriers to Unity
Mutual Distrust
Years of violence, arrests, and media campaigns have fostered deep mutual suspicion between Fatah and Hamas. Trust remains the key barrier to lasting reconciliation.
External Interference
Foreign governments, including Israel and the United States, have expressed opposition to Hamas’s inclusion in a future Palestinian government. Meanwhile, regional powers such as Egypt, Qatar, and Iran continue to influence the actions of different factions, complicating unity efforts.
Fragmentation on the Ground
In the West Bank, the Palestinian Authority is increasingly viewed as ineffective and corrupt, while in Gaza, Hamas has maintained control under dire humanitarian conditions. Smaller armed groups are also emerging, weakening centralized authority on both sides.
Outlook and Path Forward
Internal Reforms
For unity to succeed, both Fatah and Hamas will need to make internal reforms. This includes ending political arrests, empowering local governance, and engaging in transparent dialogue with civil society.
Electoral Process
The long-delayed legislative and presidential elections are widely seen as necessary steps toward legitimacy and national renewal. A successful election process could help bring in new leaders with broad-based public support.
International Support
While foreign involvement has often complicated internal politics, international actors can still play a constructive role by mediating dialogue, supporting democratic processes, and funding reconstruction and development—particularly in post-war Gaza.
Conclusion
The struggle for Palestinian unity continues to define the political life of the Palestinian people. Events from 2022 to 2025 have revealed both the persistent challenges and the renewed possibilities for reconciliation. While declarations and agreements offer hope, it is ultimately the actions of Palestinian leaders and the will of the people that will determine whether unity becomes a reality. With continued pressure from within and without, the road ahead remains difficult but not impossible.
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