Basel Abu Shahab, secretary of the Fatah movement in Lebanon’s Burj al-Shemali refugee camp, asserted in a recent interview that the demand for a two-state solution constitutes a strategic “trap” set for Israel. Speaking to Palestine TV over the weekend, Abu Shahab suggested that should a Palestinian state be established, it could develop capabilities rivaling Israel’s within two decades, including an aircraft industry and other sectors vital to statehood.
Abu Shahab, the son of Fatah Maj.-Gen. Jalal Abu Shehab, said Israel’s reluctance to concede to a Palestinian state stems from its recognition of the potential consequences for Israeli security and the broader geopolitical order. “Israel has reason to fear us,” he said, adding that a Palestinian state’s formation could lead to what he described as “the disappearance of the Israeli entity and the end of global Zionism.”
During the interview, Abu Shahab praised Palestinian fighters (fida’i) and spoke positively of past operations, including Fatah’s 1969 abduction of Israeli watchman Shmuel Rosenswasser near the Lebanese town of Metulla. Rosenswasser was held captive for over a year before being exchanged for a prisoner held by Israel. He highlighted the operation as a milestone led by the late Abu Ali Iyad, a prominent Fatah figure, emphasizing its significance in Fatah’s militant history.
While Abu Shahab expressed nostalgia for these armed struggles, he acknowledged that the disarmament process in the Burj al-Shemali camp represented “a historic opportunity” for Palestinians and Syrians living there. He noted that turning in weapons has allowed the camp’s inhabitants to secure permissions to import construction materials, improving their living conditions amid Lebanon’s challenging security environment.
Abu Shahab also referenced persistent discrimination against Palestinians in Lebanon, which he described as “anti-Palestinian racism,” and cited increased restrictions and deteriorating conditions in the camp. Although he did not explicitly name Hezbollah, he mentioned “parties” that embrace Palestinians and share solidarity with the Palestinian cause.
In efforts to foster better relations with Lebanese communities, Abu Shahab said Fatah supports a 133-member folk dance troupe, Siraj al-Awda, which has helped Palestinians access areas previously closed due to political sensitivities, including predominantly Sunni villages like Kfar Shuba. He highlighted this cultural outreach as a means to repair relationships with Lebanese groups that once supported the Palestinian movement but later viewed Palestinians as occupiers.
Despite Fatah’s continued ability to operate within Lebanon, Abu Shahab noted that the current security situation has impeded the party from convening senior meetings of the Palestinian National Council in the country. He warned against internal dissent, urging Fatah members to maintain discipline and unity by refraining from criticizing the movement’s leadership openly.
“The road ahead is difficult,” Abu Shahab said, urging members to remain steadfast amid challenges and attacks on the movement. He concluded by invoking the sacrifices of Palestinian “martyrs” as a source of divine protection for Fatah’s enduring struggle.