PA’s killing of resistance fighter amid army raid signals its open coordination with Israel

Amidst Israel's ongoing military operations in the occupied West Bank, the killing of a resistance fighter by the Palestinian Authority (PA) has sparked widespread outrage. This incident has further strained the already tense relationship between the PA and the Palestinian people.

Abdul Rahman Abu Muna, a member of the armed wing of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad movement and wanted by Israel, was shot and abducted by Palestinian security forces on Monday at the Nazzim roundabout in Jenin. The circumstances surrounding his capture and subsequent death have raised serious questions.

His death was confirmed after being transported to a hospital, intensifying the anger and condemnation from various Palestinian factions and human rights groups. The incident has triggered protests and calls for accountability.

Anwar Rajab, a spokesman for the Palestinian security services, stated that the security forces were fulfilling their duty to maintain order when engaging with Abu Muna, referring to him as an "outlaw" who had previously fired at the security services headquarters. This justification has been met with skepticism and disbelief by many Palestinians.

Rajab claimed that Abu Muna fired first, prompting the security forces to respond according to the rules of engagement, resulting in his injury and eventual death. However, this account is disputed by eyewitnesses and raises concerns about the use of excessive force.

Hamas condemned the killing, calling it a dangerous escalation and accusing the PA of targeting its own people and resistance fighters. The Palestinian Islamic Jihad movement also denounced the killing, describing it as a "heinous crime" and a "dangerous escalation of the policy of Palestinian bloodshed."

Meanwhile, the Committee of Families of Political Prisoners in the West Bank criticized the PA's actions, accusing it of suppressing resistance fighters and undermining Palestinian unity in the face of ongoing Israeli aggression. The committee emphasized the need for solidarity and resistance against the occupation.

Analysts say the killing marks yet another red line crossed by the PA in its violent crackdown on Palestinian resistance in the West Bank. The PA has previously coordinated intelligence and raids with Israel, but usually covertly. This incident highlights the increasing collaboration between the PA and Israeli forces.

During the recent crackdown in Jenin, the PA killed several Palestinian civilians and resistance fighters. However, this is the first time a fighter has been killed while Israel is conducting a parallel raid on the city. The timing of the incident has further fueled the outrage and resentment.

Observers say that this is one of the worst periods in Palestinian history, with the PA openly collaborating with Israel to pursue, kill, and arrest resistance fighters. This collaboration is seen as a betrayal of the Palestinian cause and a violation of the PA's mandate.

Hasan Khreisheh, Deputy Speaker of the Palestinian Legislative Council, told Middle East Eye that "the assassination and killing of Palestinian resistance fighters is unacceptable under any circumstances." He stressed the importance of protecting and supporting those who resist the occupation.

Khreisheh expressed concern about the PA's role, questioning whether it was confronting its own people or aligning itself with the Israeli occupation forces. He argued that neither approach was consistent with its responsibilities, calling for a reevaluation of the PA's policies.

Legally, Khreisheh explained that the PA was disregarding legal and moral obligations, instead choosing to send a message that it was operating normally despite the Israeli crackdown. "This is incomprehensible, and it seems no one is listening," he added, highlighting the PA's disregard for the rule of law.

Human rights activist Issa Amro called the killings "extrajudicial executions," an international crime that needs to be held accountable. However, he noted that Palestinian courts are politicized and will not hold the PA accountable for human rights violations or extrajudicial killings. He emphasized the need for an independent and impartial justice system.

Amro told Middle East Eye that "the lack of accountability and deterrence, especially after the assassination of activist Nizar Banat and the deaths of many Palestinian civilians, will only exacerbate this problem." He warned that if this continues, the number of Palestinian civilian casualties will increase unless the perpetrators are held responsible.

Political analyst Muhammad al-Cheik said that due to Israel's ongoing occupation and its continuous aggression in the northern West Bank, the PA lacks the legitimacy to implement security measures on Palestinians, including resistance fighters. He argued that the PA's actions are counterproductive and undermine the Palestinian cause.

Instead of addressing internal unity and strengthening the Palestinian cause internationally, Cheik said, the PA has opted for a security-driven approach against its own people – regardless of the justification. He explained: "Israel is using the Oslo Accords to strengthen its military and settlements to expand its borders at the expense of the Palestinians. Therefore, the PA's actions lack legitimacy and justification."

"Security coordination only weakens the Palestinian cause, isolates it, and deepens internal conflict without achieving any practical results." Cheik warned that the PA's actions could damage Palestinian social cohesion and pave the way for a large-scale Israeli escalation under the pretext that armed groups have external agendas. He said this would further damage Palestinian rights in the eyes of the world.

He called on the PA to engage in an urgent dialogue with Palestinian factions, announce presidential and legislative elections, and form a national consensus government. He told Middle East Eye: "These steps are crucial to stopping the draining of our energies and laying a solid foundation for improving our relationship with the international community. Without them, the PA will lead us to disaster."