The year 1988 marked a profoundly significant juncture in Palestinian history, culminating in the formal declaration of the State of Palestine. The literary genius and national poet of Palestine, Mahmoud Darwish, was the intellectual force behind the eloquent articulation of the Palestinian Declaration of Independence.

Darwish, celebrated globally for his evocative verse that often spoke to themes of exile, identity, and the Palestinian narrative, crafted this seminal document. His poetic sensibilities imbued the declaration with both historical gravitas and a fervent plea for self-determination. This wasn't merely a political statement; it was a deeply symbolic expression of a nation's aspirations, rooted in its profound connection to its land and heritage, as encapsulated in the Palestinian spirit of sumud – steadfastness.

Promulgation in Algiers

This momentous declaration was then officially promulgated by Yasser Arafat, the then-Chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), on November 15, 1988. The historic announcement took place during the 19th session of the Palestinian National Council (PNC) held in Algiers, Algeria. Algiers, a city with its own history of anti-colonial struggle, provided a symbolically resonant backdrop for such a proclamation.

Arafat's declaration, read before a rapt audience of international delegates and Palestinian representatives, explicitly cited the United Nations Partition Plan of 1947 (Resolution 181) and subsequent UN resolutions affirming Palestinian rights, including Resolution 194 concerning the right of return. Crucially, the declaration implicitly accepted United Nations Security Council Resolution 242 and 338, which are widely interpreted as endorsing a two-state solution based on the 1967 borders, effectively signaling a shift towards a diplomatic resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The Declaration's Enduring Impact

The Palestinian Declaration of Independence was a pivotal moment, shifting the Palestinian national movement's strategy from armed struggle towards political and diplomatic engagement. It asserted the Palestinian people's inherent right to statehood, sovereignty, and self-determination on their national soil. While not immediately leading to the establishment of a fully independent state, the declaration garnered significant international recognition, with over 100 countries acknowledging the State of Palestine shortly after its promulgation.

This document remains a foundational text, reflecting the Palestinian people's enduring quest for freedom and an independent state with Jerusalem as its capital. It continues to be a crucial reference point in international discussions concerning Palestinian statehood and the broader peace process in the Middle East.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Palestinian Declaration of Independence

Who wrote the Palestinian Declaration of Independence?

The Palestinian Declaration of Independence was principally drafted by the revered Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish, known for his influential contributions to Arab literature and his poignant articulation of the Palestinian experience.

Who officially declared the Palestinian Declaration of Independence?

Yasser Arafat, as Chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), officially promulgated and declared the Palestinian Declaration of Independence.

When and where was the Declaration of Independence made?

The declaration was made on November 15, 1988, in Algiers, Algeria, during the 19th session of the Palestinian National Council (PNC).

What was the main purpose of the Palestinian Declaration of Independence?

The declaration's primary purpose was to assert the Palestinian people's inherent right to self-determination, statehood, and sovereignty on their national soil, while also signaling a strategic shift towards a diplomatic and peaceful resolution of the conflict based on international law and UN resolutions.

How did the international community react to the Declaration?

The Palestinian Declaration of Independence was widely recognized by numerous countries, with over 100 states extending recognition to the State of Palestine shortly after its promulgation, marking a significant diplomatic achievement for the PLO.