Oslo Accords

The Oslo Accords were agreements between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization that established temporary Palestinian self-rule in parts of the West Bank and Gaza Strip, not a sovereign Palestinian state. The 1993 Declaration of Principles envisaged an elected Palestinian Interim Self-Government Authority, while the 1995 agreement defined its institutions, territorial jurisdiction and responsibilities pending a final settlement.

Institutions of interim self-government

The framework transferred specified civil and security responsibilities from Israel to Palestinian institutions.

• The Palestinian Authority initially administered transferred responsibilities, while the 1995 Interim Agreement provided for an elected Palestinian Council with legislative and executive powers within its jurisdiction.
• Palestinian departments assumed functions such as education, health, social welfare, direct taxation and tourism.
• A Palestinian police force was established to maintain public order and internal security in areas under Palestinian responsibility.
• The framework also provided for Palestinian courts and an independent judicial system.

Division of the West Bank

The 1995 Interim Agreement, commonly called Oslo II, divided the West Bank into Areas A, B and C, with different allocations of civil and security authority during the interim period.

• In Area A, the Palestinian Council exercised civil authority and responsibility for internal security and public order.
• In Area B, Palestinians exercised civil authority and public-order functions for Palestinians, while Israel retained overriding security responsibility.
• In Area C, Israel retained powers not transferred to the Palestinian side, pending further redeployment.

Transitional character and coordination

The arrangements were designed for a five-year transitional period. They allocated interim responsibilities without determining sovereignty or prejudging the eventual permanent settlement.

• Jerusalem, refugees, settlements, security arrangements and borders were reserved for permanent-status negotiations.
• A Joint Israeli-Palestinian Liaison Committee, together with specialised security and economic mechanisms, was intended to coordinate implementation and resolve disputes.