Palestine

The Land of Prophets and Perseverance

Palestine, officially known as the State of Palestine, is a land of profound spiritual, historical, and cultural significance — revered by Muslims, Christians, and Jews alike. Despite long-standing political struggles and occupation, the Palestinian people continue to uphold their identity, resilience, and hope for peace, justice, and sovereignty.

🏛️ Formation & Historical Background

Palestine’s heritage dates back to ancient times, serving as a cradle of civilization and faith for thousands of years.

Key Historical Timeline:

• c. 3000 BCE: Canaanite civilization flourishes in the region

• 1000 BCE: Kingdoms of Israel and Judah established in parts of Palestine

• 63 BCE: Roman conquest and incorporation into the Empire

• 638 CE: Islamic rule begins under Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab — Jerusalem becomes Al-Quds

• 1099–1187: Crusader period, followed by liberation by Salahuddin Ayyubi

• 1517–1917: Under Ottoman Empire rule for four centuries

• 1917: British Mandate following World War I and the Balfour Declaration

• 1947: UN Partition Plan proposes division of Palestine

• 1948: Nakba (Catastrophe) – displacement of ~700,000 Palestinians during creation of Israel

• 1967: Israel occupies West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem

• 1988: Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) declares State of Palestine

• 2012: Recognized by the United Nations as a non-member observer state

• Present: Ongoing struggle for independence and international recognition

🧭 Basic National Information

⚖️ Government and Leadership

Palestine operates a dual administrative system under the Palestinian Authority (West Bank) and de facto Hamas government (Gaza Strip), amid complex political divisions and occupation realities.

🗺️ Administrative Structure

Palestine is divided into two main territories:

1. West Bank (including East Jerusalem)

2. Gaza Strip

These territories are further divided into governorates managed by local councils and ministries under the Palestinian Authority.

West Bank Governorates (11):

1. Jerusalem (Al-Quds)

2. Ramallah and Al-Bireh

3. Hebron (Al-Khalil)

4. Bethlehem

5. Nablus

6. Jenin

7. Tulkarm

8. Qalqilya

9. Salfit

10. Tubas

11. Jericho and Al-Aghwar

Gaza Strip Governorates (5):

1. North Gaza

2. Gaza

3. Deir al-Balah

4. Khan Yunis

5. Rafah

Each governorate is administered by a Governor (appointed by the PA) and has its own municipal councils and service providers.

🌐 Geography & Environment

• Location: Middle East — borders Israel, Jordan, and Egypt; coast on the Mediterranean Sea

• Major Landforms: Hills of Hebron, Jordan Valley, Gaza coastal plains

• Major Rivers: Jordan River, Wadi Gaza

• Climate: Mediterranean in the west, semi-arid inland

• Natural Resources: Olive trees, limestone, agricultural land

• Environmental Challenges: Land confiscation, water scarcity, pollution, deforestation

Palestine’s olive trees — often centuries old — are symbols of endurance and peace.

Local Government Structure

• Municipalities and village councils manage:

  • Sanitation, water, electricity, urban planning

• Elections held periodically but disrupted due to political division

• Gaza Strip functions under Hamas-led administration

Leadership & Governance

• Palestinian Authority (PA) oversees West Bank under Oslo Accords framework.

• Hamas controls Gaza since 2007, operating a parallel administration.

• Ongoing efforts for national reconciliation have yet to succeed.

• Civil society plays an increasing role amid weak institutional continuity.

Law Enforcement & Safety

• Law enforcement split:

  • Palestinian Civil Police and Preventive Security in West Bank

  • Hamas Internal Security and military wing (Qassam Brigades) in Gaza

• Israeli military controls most border and airspace

• Civil unrest, military operations, and occupation impact security

🕌 Religion, Language & Culture

Cultural Highlights:

• National Dress: Thobe (embroidered robe) and Keffiyeh (black-and-white scarf symbolizing resistance)

• Cuisine: Maqluba, Musakhan, Falafel, Kanafeh, Hummus

• Music & Art: Traditional Dabke dance, poetry of Mahmoud Darwish

• Festivals: Eid al-Fitr, Easter, Independence Day, Olive Harvest Festival

Palestine’s rich cultural heritage continues to thrive despite hardships.

📈 Economy & Key Sectors

Palestine’s economy faces challenges due to occupation and trade restrictions, yet it remains resilient through agriculture, craftsmanship, and international aid.

Despite limitations, Palestinian entrepreneurs and youth drive growth through technology and e-commerce sectors.

🎓 Education & Healthcare

Palestinian students are known globally for academic excellence, often pursuing higher studies abroad.

✈️ Transport & Infrastructure

🕊️ Tourism & Sacred Sites

Palestine is home to some of the holiest places for all Abrahamic religions.

Top Destinations:

• Jerusalem (Al-Quds):

  • Al-Aqsa Mosque & Dome of the Rock (Islam’s 3rd holiest site)

  • Church of the Holy Sepulchre (Christian pilgrimage site)

• Bethlehem: Church of the Nativity (birthplace of Jesus)

• Hebron (Al-Khalil): Ibrahimi Mosque / Cave of the Patriarchs

• Jericho: One of the world’s oldest cities

• Nablus: Historic Old City and Mount Gerizim

• Gaza City: Al-Omari Grand Mosque and seashore life

Spiritual tourism remains a major hope for Palestine’s cultural and economic revival.

🌍 Global Role & Relations

Palestine’s diplomatic efforts focus on peaceful coexistence and international recognition.

📝 Summary

Palestine is more than a land — it is a symbol of faith, endurance, and human dignity. From the ancient stones of Jerusalem to the olive groves of Hebron, every corner tells a story of struggle and hope. Despite decades of adversity, the Palestinian spirit continues to shine as a beacon of resilience and aspiration for peace and justice.

📢 News & Articles

• “Palestine’s Cultural Resistance Through Art and Heritage”

• “Al-Aqsa: The Heart of Jerusalem and Faith”

• “The Global Call for Palestinian Sovereignty and Peace”

🎯 Our Mission

This profile aims to document Palestine’s history, faith, and resilience — as part of the AFP Global Knowledge Hub, promoting truth, cultural understanding, and human rights awareness.

📬 Contact Us

For verified updates, cultural contributions, or humanitarian support information regarding Palestine, contact our editorial team.