Hebron leaders propose forming an independent emirate separate from the Palestinian Authority

In March 2025, during a pivotal moment in Hebron, a city of significant religious importance located in the West Bank, five prominent Arab sheikhs made a groundbreaking proposal to the Israeli government. They requested that Hebron be separated from the Palestinian Authority (PA) and transformed into an independent emirate that would establish diplomatic ties with Israel. The sheikhs articulated this desire through a letter addressed to Israeli Minister of Economy and Industry, Nir Barkat, proposing the Emirate of Hebron recognize Israel as the nation state of the Jewish people and, in return, seek recognition from Israel as representatives of the Arab populace in the region. This unprecedented call reflects a shift in perspective among some local leaders, who now favor normalization and cooperation with Israel over continued allegiance to the PA, which is experiencing declining popularity among the people of Hebron. These leaders indicated that many residents in the city share their sentiments, expressing dissatisfaction with the PA's governance. Sheikh Wadee al-Jaabari, the head of Hebron's powerful tribal clan and one of the prominent signatories of the letter, emphasized the need for coexistence and cooperation with Israel. He explicitly noted that the concept of Palestinian statehood is unlikely to materialize in the foreseeable future, asserting that the current geopolitical landscape, particularly in light of recent events, has rendered it unattainable. Aligning with this, the proposal includes a phased plan allowing workers from Hebron to gain access to the Israeli job market, beginning with permits for 1,000 workers and gradually escalating to possibly 50,000. Beyond merely acknowledging Israel, this plan aims to enhance economic prospects for the residents of Hebron while still promoting a form of self-governance that advocates for local autonomy distinct from the PA's control. The call for forming an emirate in Hebron aligns with the broader context of the Abraham Accords, highlighting a potential shift in Middle Eastern dynamics regarding peace agreements between Israel and Arab nations. As various high-level discussions regarding regional stability continue, the leaders in Hebron advocate pursuing their independent path, indicating that a significant segment of the Arab populace in the area is increasingly interested in aligning with Israel for better opportunities and security.