The recent commentary draws a compelling parallel between coaching in sports and the responsibilities of political leadership. Just as a coach faces the axe if they fail to deliver results, so too do governments that don’t meet the needs of their citizens. When political authorities ignore the desires and rights of the people, the consequences can be severe, as demonstrated by the widespread protests in Iran. Tens of thousands have taken to the streets, expressing their discontent with their leaders and showing support for foreign nations like America and Israel, hoping for a shift towards freedom.
In stark contrast, the Palestinian Authority (PA) appears insulated from such accountability. Rather than prioritizing the citizens they claim to represent, the PA continues to propagate patterns of antisemitism and glorify militants. Meanwhile, ordinary Palestinians suffer. Tawfik Tirawi, a former Palestinian intelligence chief, openly criticized the PA for its systemic corruption in a recent letter, underscoring a disconnect between the leadership’s actions and the public’s needs.
Tirawi highlights a troubling reality: the PA operates with apparent immunity from consequence. Elections have not occurred in years, and Mahmoud Abbas clings to power well beyond his mandate. This situation fosters an environment where PA officials prioritize personal and political gain over the welfare of their constituents. The criticism from Tirawi serves as an important testament from within the ranks, revealing that the internal struggles of the Palestinian leadership are not mere external perceptions but deeply embedded issues.
The financial dealings of the PA further underscore the corruption that has taken root. While the U.S. State Department noted payments exceeding $200 million in 2025 to terrorists and their families, the PA’s continued deception regarding such funding reflects a sports-like cheating strategy, undermining trust and accountability.
Despite these challenges, some argue against confronting the PA out of fear that the vacuum created might benefit Hamas. That logic, however, may shield more significant dangers. Hamas capitalized on the very corruption of the PA in 2006, winning election by promising change while subsequently establishing a governance fraught with violence and radical indoctrination. Recently, a survey showed a troubling trend: popularity for Hamas is surging, while Fatah, the faction behind the PA, falters in public opinion.
There’s mounting frustration among Palestinian business and community leaders regarding PA corruption. This sentiment reveals a thirst for change, suggesting that the time for a new approach is now. A shift from the entrenched two-state framework to a more decentralized governance model could address these systemic issues.
Local governance could foster accountability and diminish corruption, empowering communities to make decisions more aligned with their interests. The al-Jaabari family in Hebron exemplifies this emerging movement; they are advocating for local autonomy independent of the PA while seeking partnerships within the Abraham Accords.
Moreover, the issue of education is critical. In examining PA educational materials, one finds widespread incitement against Israel and the promotion of violent resistance against Jews. This systemic problem poses a direct threat to any future coexistence effort. A move toward educational reform under a decentralized governance approach could lead to more constructive curricula and local authorities fostering pluralism.
The insights from former U.S. Ambassador David Friedman ring true: thriving local communities may hinge less on the abstract notion of statehood and more on localized power and economic integration. This reframing encourages a fresh perspective and a rejection of the entrenched ideas that have led to stagnation.
Ultimately, like a coach reassessing their game plan and roster when faced with defeat, leaders in Judea and Samaria must pivot strategies to create pathways for real solutions. The necessity for change is palpable, and there are tangible steps that can—and must—be taken to rejuvenate hope and possibility for Palestinians.
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