Mahmoud Abbas

Biography

Mahmoud Abbas, also known by the kunya Abu Mazen, was born on November 15, 1935, in Safed, Mandatory Palestine. He is a pivotal figure in Palestinian politics, serving as President of the Palestinian Authority since January 2005, succeeding Yasser Arafat. Abbas is a member of the Fatah party and has been Chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) since November 2004. His political career is highlighted by his pursuit of a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, advocating for a two-state solution and participating in various negotiations with Israel. Despite facing criticism for his leadership style and governance issues within the PA, Abbas remains a significant player in Middle Eastern politics. His tenure has been marked by attempts to gain international recognition for Palestinian statehood and efforts to reconcile Palestinian factions. Abbas holds a Ph.D. in history from the Moscow State Institute of International Relations, reflecting his early involvement in the Palestinian movement through education and diplomacy.