Establishment of the Palestinian National Authority

On May 4, 1994, the Palestinian National Authority (PNA) was officially established following the signing of the Gaza-Jericho Agreement in Cairo, Egypt. This agreement, a direct outcome of the 1993 Oslo I Accord, marked a historic step toward Palestinian self-governance. It granted the PNA limited administrative and security control over parts of the West Bank and Gaza Strip, with the goal of eventually expanding its authority over additional areas through further negotiations. With the establishment of the PNA, Yasser Arafat, chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), was appointed as its first president. In July 1994, Arafat returned to Gaza after decades in exile to formally assume leadership. The PNA was given responsibility for civil administration, economic management, and law enforcement in Palestinian-controlled territories, marking a significant transition from Israeli military rule to Palestinian self-rule in certain areas. The PNA was originally intended as a temporary governing body for a five-year period, leading to final status negotiations that would determine the future of Palestine. However, political tensions, security concerns, and stalled peace talks have prolonged its existence. Despite facing significant challenges, including territorial fragmentation and internal divisions, the PNA remains the official governing body of the Palestinian territories, playing a crucial role in Palestinian politics and diplomacy.