Palestinian Authority Founded by renown terrorist and PLO founder Yasser Arafat, the PA was formed in 1993 and took over the areas that Israel pulled out of as part of the September 13, 1993 Oslo agreement. Since that time, Palestinian terrorism against Israel has reached unprecedented levels. When speaking with the western media, former Chairman Arafat and members of his organization express their commitment to the peace processes. Unfortunately, they continue to plan and carry out terrorist attacks as well as incite hatred and violence towards the US and Israel. The Palestinian Authority's intentions were made evident when, on January 3 2002, Israeli commandoes intercepted the Karine-A smuggling ship which was filled with over 50-tons of weapons. The weapons included Katyusha rockets, mortar shells, various types of anti-tank missiles, anti-tank mines, sniper rifles, Kalashnikov rifles and ammunition. In early 2006, the terrorist organization HAMAS won legislative elections, and thus replaced Arafat's Fatah as leading party of the Palestinian people. Geography: The West Bank is mostly composed of limestone hills (conventionally called the Samarian Hills north of Jerusalem and the Judaean Hills south of Jerusalem) having an average height of 2,300 to 3,000 ft (700 to 900 m). The Gaza Strip is located between Israel and Egypt on the Mediterranean coast. It is a flat to rolling sand- and dune-covered coastal plain. Affiliated Groups: Hamas, PIJ, Fatah / Tanzim / Force 17, Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade Sanctions: None Area Facts: Population: Approx. 3.8 Million Land Area: Approx. 2,500 Miles² Leader: Mahmoud Abbas Life Expectancy: N/A Religion: Islam

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