Palestine is administratively divided into 16 governorates, each serving as a primary administrative unit within the Palestinian Territories. These governorates play a crucial role in local governance, providing essential services and infrastructure to the Palestinian population. Here is an overview of each governorate:
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Jerusalem Governorate:
Located in the central part of the West Bank, the Jerusalem Governorate includes East Jerusalem and surrounding areas. It is culturally and historically significant, containing many religious and historical sites.
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Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate:
This governorate is characterized by its administrative and economic importance, housing the de facto administrative capital of the Palestinian Authority, Ramallah. It also includes the city of al-Bireh and several surrounding towns. -
Jenin Governorate:
Situated in the northern West Bank, the Jenin Governorate is known for its agricultural productivity and historical sites. Jenin city is the largest urban center in this governorate. -
Tulkarm Governorate:
Bordering Israel to the west, the Tulkarm Governorate is primarily agricultural, with Tulkarm city being the largest urban center. It is known for its citrus and olive groves. -
Nablus Governorate:
Located in the northern West Bank, the Nablus Governorate is historically significant and economically diverse. Nablus city, the largest in the governorate, is a major commercial and cultural center. -
Qalqilya Governorate:
This governorate is located in the northwest part of the West Bank, near the Green Line. Qalqilya city is known for its agriculture, particularly citrus fruits and olive groves. -
Salfit Governorate:
Salfit Governorate is situated in the central West Bank and is known for its agricultural production, particularly olive oil and grapes. Salfit city is the largest urban center in this governorate. -
Jericho Governorate:
Located in the Jordan Valley, the Jericho Governorate is the lowest and one of the oldest continuously inhabited areas in the world. Jericho city is known for its historical and archaeological significance. -
Bethlehem Governorate:
Bethlehem Governorate includes the city of Bethlehem, a major pilgrimage site and significant cultural center. It is known for its historical and religious importance, particularly as the birthplace of Jesus. -
Hebron Governorate:
Hebron Governorate is located in the southern West Bank and is known for its cultural and religious significance, housing the traditional burial site of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Hebron city is the largest urban center. -
North Gaza Governorate:
In the Gaza Strip, the North Gaza Governorate is one of five administrative regions. It includes Jabalia, the largest refugee camp in Gaza, and Beit Lahia, known for its agricultural production. -
Gaza Governorate:
The Gaza Governorate encompasses Gaza City, the largest city in the Gaza Strip. It is a densely populated area known for its economic challenges and cultural richness. -
Deir al-Balah Governorate:
Situated in the central Gaza Strip, Deir al-Balah Governorate is known for its agriculture, particularly citrus fruits and vegetables. Deir al-Balah city is the largest urban center. -
Khan Yunis Governorate:
Khan Yunis Governorate is located in the southern Gaza Strip and is known for its agriculture and fishing industries. Khan Yunis city is the largest urban center in this governorate. -
Rafah Governorate:
The Rafah Governorate is located in the southernmost part of the Gaza Strip, bordering Egypt. Rafah city is known for its refugee camp and border crossing. -
West Bank Areas (under Palestinian Civil Control):
These areas include parts of the West Bank where Palestinian civil control is exercised, often referred to as Area A and parts of Area B under the Oslo Accords. They encompass urban and rural areas under Palestinian Authority administration.
Each governorate plays a crucial role in the social, economic, and political landscape of Palestine, contributing to the overall governance and development of the Palestinian Territories. The governorates vary in size, population, economic activities, and historical significance, reflecting the diversity and complexity of Palestinian society and its ongoing quest for statehood and self-determination.