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Hebron Sheikhs’ Plan for Independent Emirate Draws Local Backlash, Awaits Israel’s Reply

Local backlash has cast doubt on the sheikhs’ authority after they formally sought Israel’s recognition for a separate Hebron emirate

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Hebron (Joel Pollak / Breitbart News)

Overview

  • On July 6, five self-styled Hebron sheikhs sent Economy Minister Nir Barkat a letter proposing an independent emirate that would recognize Israel and join the Abraham Accords
  • Their proposal outlines an initial 1,000-worker Israeli–West Bank industrial zone with a zero-tolerance policy on terrorism to spur economic growth
  • The Israeli government has not issued any official response to the letter, leaving the initiative’s future uncertain
  • Hebron activists and residents, led by Issa Amro, have denounced the purported sheikhs for lacking genuine political standing or community support
  • Members of the extended Jaabari family publicly rejected the plan, stating it does not reflect their views or represent Hebron’s Palestinian population