The Palestinian National Authority (PA or PNA) emerged from the 1993 Oslo Accords, to provide partial interim self-government in the Gaza Strip and in Areas A and B of the West Bank initially for a period of five years that should have ended in 1999. Owing to the breakdown in the peace process, no further progress has been made in the West Bank.
The PA is distinct from the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO), which enjoys international recognition.
In 2005 Israel withdrew soldiers and settlers from the Gaza Strip, but continued to control the coastline and the border with Israel.
In 2006 the Palestinian general election produced a majority for Hamas. The Quartet suspended economic aid. Israel imposed sanctions. Fatah took control of the West Bank. Hamas took over Gaza. Efforts continue, on and off, to form a Unity Government embracing Hamas and Fatah.