Sheikh Wadee’ al‑Jaabari, an influential leader in Hebron, is receiving violent threats after proposing to break from the Palestinian Authority and join the Abraham Accords with Israel. His bold move reflects growing support for economic cooperation and peace, yet it puts him at risk.
Al‑Jaabari, 48, heads one of Hebron’s leading clans and represents hundreds of thousands of residents. Alongside four other sheikhs, he signed a formal letter to Israeli Economy Minister Nir Barkat endorsing separation from the Palestinian Authority and establishing the “Emirate of Hebron” under Israeli security. The group aims to emulate the Abraham Accords by opening a joint economic zone and extending work permits to up to 50,000 Palestinians.
Since going public, al‑Jaabari has reportedly received multiple violent threats. A source indicated he and collaborators are prepared to take action within days, saying they are “outmanned and outgunned” but backed by local militia forces and clan networks . His initiative directly challenges the Palestinian Authority, which critics argue has failed to bring prosperity or true self‑governance since the Oslo Accords.
Responding to the controversy, other al‑Jaabari family members publicly distanced themselves, accusing him of undermining Palestinian national unity. However, al‑Jaabari and fellow sheikhs countered that faction of the family aligns with the PA and seeks to suppress their independence movement. They also claim the PA detained relatives to block the peace initiative.
Israeli contacts, including Barkat, reportedly view the proposal favorably, citing its potential to stabilize Hebron economically and enforce strong anti‑terrorism policies. The vision involves beginning with a 1,000‑acre trial zone near the Green Line and gradually scaling up to full autonomy with Israeli oversight.
The backlash spotlights ongoing divisions within Palestinian society and the complexity of peace efforts. Al‑Jaabari’s peace overture offers an alternative path to the two‑state model—but the threats underscore the dangers faced by those who challenge the status quo.
