(Jerusalem Post) Khaled Abu Toameh - Armed groups in the Jenin area of the West Bank have managed to rebuild a vast terror infrastructure while the PA chose to look the other way. PA security forces acted against the gunmen only when they dared to challenge the PA. In 2008, the PA, supported by Israel and the international community, embarked on the Jenin Pilot Project to be a model for successful PA governance. The plan envisioned a reinforcement of the PA security forces in the Jenin area. A large number of infrastructure projects were approved, including 36 quick impact projects in cooperation with USAID and other international donors that included the establishment of an industrial zone and upgrading the sewage system and electricity infrastructure. In addition, Israel allowed Israeli Arabs to enter the Jenin area, a decision that significantly boosted the local economy. But while matters in the Jenin area seemed to be moving in the right direction, the armed groups continued to grow and amass weapons.
2022-04-14 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive