Hikmat Zaid

Hikmat Hashim Lotfi Zaid Al-Kilani (Arabic: حكمت هاشم لطفي زيد الكيلاني, romanized: Ḥikmat Hāshim Luṭfī Zayd al-Kīlānī, born 9 August 1945), also known by his kunya Abu Zaid (Arabic: ابو زيد, romanized: Abū Zayd), is a prominent Palestinian politician and former minister with a long and distinguished career in public service. Since 2008, he has been serving as a member of Fatah's Advisory Council, a role that involves providing strategic guidance and advice to one of the leading Palestinian political organizations, Fatah.

Minister Eng. Hikmat Zaid
Abu Zaid in 2002
Member of the Fatah Advisory Council
Incumbent
Assumed office 2008
President	Mahmoud Abbas
Member of the Fatah Revolutionary Council
In office 1988–2008
Presidential Advisor for Governorate Affairs
In office 2006 – 30 November 2013
President	Mahmoud Abbas
2nd Agriculture Minister
In office 9 August 1998 – 13 June 2002 Acting: 2004–2005
President	Yasser Arafat
Prime Minister	Ahmed Qurei
Preceded by	Abdul Jawad Saleh
Succeeded by	Rafiq Al-Natsheh
5th Transport Minister
In office 11 November 2003 – 24 February 2005
President	Yasser Arafat (until November 2004) Rawhi Fattouh (acting until January 2005) Mahmoud Abbas (after January 2005)
Prime Minister	Ahmed Qurei (after November 2004)
Preceded by	Abdulrahman Hamad
Succeeded by	Saadeddin Kharma
1st Governor of Jenin
In office November 1995 – 24 November 1996
Preceded by	Office established
Succeeded by	Zuhair Al-Manasra
Member of the Palestinian Legislative Council
In office 1996 won Jenin as Independent – 2006 lost Jenin as Fatah
Ambassador to Hungary
In office 1985–1995
Preceded by	Office established
Succeeded by	Zuhair Al-Manasra
Ambassador to Yemen Arab Republic
In office 1979–1985
Deputy PLO Representative to Moscow
In office 1977–1979
Personal details
Born	(1945-08-09) 9 August 1945 Silat al-Harithiya, Jenin, Mandatory Palestine
Nationality	Palestinian
Political party	Fatah 1970-Present PLO 1965-Present
Spouse	Itidal Zaid ​ (m. 1971)​
Children	Hadil Zaid Hisham Samer
Residence(s)	Ramallah, Palestine Amman, Jordan
Alma mater	Alexandria University
Occupation	Politician, advisor, minister, governor, ambassador
Profession	Agricultural Engineering
Religion	Islam

Abu Zaid political career spans several decades, during which he has held a variety of key positions within the Palestinian National Authority (PNA), playing an instrumental role in shaping policy and governance. He first gained significant political influence when he was appointed as the 2nd Minister of Agriculture in Yasser Arafat's third government. During his tenure, Abu Zaid focused on enhancing the agricultural sector, promoting self-sufficiency, and supporting Palestinian farmers in a challenging economic and political environment. His efforts were crucial in sustaining the agricultural base of the Palestinian economy during a period marked by instability.

In addition to his work in agriculture, Abu Zaid later served as the 5th Minister of Transport and Communications in Ahmed Qurei's second government. In this capacity, he was responsible for overseeing the development and modernization of Palestine's transportation infrastructure and communication networks. His work in this ministry aimed to improve connectivity across Palestinian territories, facilitate trade, and support the movement of people and goods, despite the limitations imposed by the ongoing conflict and occupation.

Abu Zaid contributions were not limited to the domestic front; he also had a significant impact on Palestinian diplomacy. He served as the Ambassador of the Embassy of the State of Palestine to Hungary, where he worked to strengthen bilateral relations, secure international support for the Palestinian cause, and advocate for the rights of Palestinians on the global stage. His diplomatic efforts in Hungary were part of a broader strategy to build and maintain strong international alliances in support of Palestinian statehood and sovereignty.

Furthermore, Abu Zaid was a trusted advisor to President Mahmoud Abbas on Governorate Affairs. . In this role, he provided counsel on matters related to the administration of the Palestinian governorates, focusing on enhancing local governance, ensuring coordination between the central government and local authorities, unity with opposing factions and addressing the unique challenges faced by different regions within Palestine.

Throughout his career, Abu Zaid has been recognized as a key figure in Palestinian politics, known for his dedication to public service and his efforts to promote the welfare of the Palestinian people through both domestic policies and international diplomacy. His work has left a lasting impact on the institutions of the Palestinian National Authority and has contributed to the ongoing struggle for Palestinian self-determination.

Early life and education

Hikmat Zaid was born in Silat al-Harithiya, a village 10 kilometres northwest of Jenin in 1945. He traveled to Egypt where he was given the chance to study abroad for free by the Egyptian government in 1963. He served as student body president and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in agricultural engineering specializing in soil chemistry, and obtained membership to the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) through its youth programs as third generation leaders recruited on campus. While in exodus, Zaid made Amman his primary residence while spending most of his time abroad in diplomatic missions for the PLO. The Abu Nidal Organization, a splinter group from the PLO made threats to assassinate PLO members such as Zaid, but did not follow through on their threats. This made his career involved in navigating complex political landscapes and often dangerous circumstances.

Career

Early political career

Whilist the PLO were in exile for decades after the 1967 Arab-Israeli War, Abu Zaid headed several diplomatic missions from the late 60s to the 90s, serving ambassadorial duties to Moscow, Sanaa and Budapest. Abu Zaid eventually returned to Palestine in 1995 after the signing of Oslo Peace Accords, visiting several major cities including his birthplace and hometown Silat al-Harithiya in Jenin.

Hikmat Zaid in 2015

Rise to power

Abu Zaid successfully ran as an independent candidate for Jenin—the city where he was born and raised—in the 1996 Palestinian legislative elections, where he garnered an impressive 14,220 votes. His victory was not just a personal achievement but a testament to his deep-rooted connection with the people of Jenin, who entrusted him to represent their interests in the legislative body. Following this electoral success, Zaid's political career continued to ascend as he became the first Governor of Jenin, a position that allowed him to directly influence the administration of the city and address the needs of its residents. His leadership in Jenin further enhanced his reputation, catching the attention of Palestinian Authority President Yasser Arafat, who subsequently appointed him as the Minister of Agriculture in 1998 as part of Arafat's third government. In this role, Abu Zaid was responsible for overseeing agricultural policies and development initiatives, a crucial sector in the Palestinian economy.

However, Zaid's swift ascent to political prominence was accompanied by significant challenges, particularly due to his principled stance against some of Arafat's policies. Despite his initial alignment with Arafat, Zaid's opposition to certain initiatives and his willingness to challenge the status quo led to tension within the government. This friction ultimately resulted in his dismissal by Arafat, known by his nom de guerre, Abu Ammar. The dismissal underscored the delicate and often volatile nature of Palestinian political dynamics during this period.

In 2004, following a major reshuffling of the Palestinian cabinet, Zaid made a comeback when he was appointed as the Minister of Transportation. His return to a ministerial role was a significant development, especially given the power struggle that was unfolding between Arafat and Mahmoud Abbas. Zaid's appointment was seen as part of the broader struggle for influence within the Palestinian leadership as Abbas sought to assert his authority in the face of Arafat's waning power, Zaid remained in this position until 2005, when the death of Yasser Arafat led to the full transition of power to Mahmoud Abbas. The end of Zaid's tenure as Minister of Transportation coincided with this pivotal moment in Palestinian history, marking the conclusion of one era and the beginning of another as Abbas assumed full control of the Palestinian Authority.

Minister of Agriculture

During his reign as the minister of agriculture, Abu Zaid imposed an embargo on a wide list of agricultural products from Israel in response to a 10-month blockade on Palestinian movement into Israel. According to him "This measure aims to denounce the destruction of Palestinian agriculture by Israel through the blockade of Palestinian territories. Bananas, mangoes, melons, pears, apples, poultry, eggs, cattle, and dairy goods, with the exception of milk, were among the items boycotted.

Palestinian Agriculture Minister Hikmat Zaid met his Israeli Agriculture Minister counterpart Shalom Simhon on 21 August to discuss the Palestinian Authority's ban on Israeli agricultural products. The ban was imposed due to Israeli military actions causing severe damage to Palestinian agriculture. Zeid indicated the ban could be lifted if the Israeli army allows free movement for Palestinian farmers and workers. Simhon plans to advocate for this with the Israeli Defense Ministry. Israel exports 11,000 tons of produce to Palestinian territories monthly and imports 7,000 tons from them. The blockade on the West Bank and Gaza has been in place since the Al-Aqsa Intifada began.

Palestinian Agriculture Minister Hikmat Zaid stated that Israeli military operations have caused over $500 million in damages to Palestinian agriculture, including the destruction of over half a million trees, fertile land, wells, and irrigation systems since 2000. These actions have worsened food insecurity and devastated agricultural production, valued at $700 million. Zaid appealed to Arab agriculture ministers for help, noting the ministry's efforts since 1994 to rehabilitate the sector, which were undone by the conflict. He emphasized that these actions have increased unemployment and pushed over 50% of Palestinians below the poverty line.

Abu Zaid is nationally often considered as the spiritual father of the Ministry of Agriculture. Despite the tumultuous political climate, including direct invasions of his ministry, Zaid remained dedicated to peaceful and pragmatic solutions.During his term, he assisted agricultural engineers, built regional headquarters for farmer services, and broadened agricultural land policy. He formalized ministry operations, collaborated with non-governmental and international groups, and increased personnel support and training. His administration gave significant assistance to those affected by agriculture and encouraged international cooperation, resulting in unprecedented external funding for the industry. His basic achievements continue to inspire successive administrations, demonstrating his vision and dedication. Even after the construction of settlements, destruction of trees and farms, confiscation of land, imposing siege, cutting off water supplies, deportation and other economic and security measures in the West Bank.

Abu Zaid ran again this time under Fatah's banner as part of their revolutionary council, but failed to defend his seat in the legislative elections; lost by a 3250 margin whilist gaining 23800 votes. He was however later on appointed to the Advisory Council of Fatah by Abu Mazen, and later on his very own presidential advisor for governorate affairs.

Advisory Role

Abu Zaid has been actively involved in political discussions and played a significant role in various political delegations and has held multiple advisory positions within the Palestinian political framework. Abu Zaid chaired the first official Fatah visit in over a year since the Fatah–Hamas conflict to Gaza Strip on 16 June 2008 coming from the city of Ramallah via the Beit Hanoun crossing (north of the Gaza Strip). and welcomed dialogue for efforts aimed at restoring Palestinian unity with senior Hamas delegation including Ahmed Yousef and Ghazi Hamad but not with then de-facto Prime Minister—and leader—of Gaza Strip Ismail Haniyeh as Fatah does not recognize it legitimate. Some websites went on to cite credible sources who claimed that the security services intended to arrest Abu Zaid awaiting an investigation. But this was quickly dismissed when Ihab Al-Ghussein, the spokesman for the Ministry of Interior in Gaza, denied such allegations in a press conference to the Palestinian Media Center. Taher al-Nunu, the spokesman for the dismissed Hamas government at the time, announced on Sunday the statements made by Hikmat Zaid, the advisor to the Palestinian president, about his unwillingness to meet with Ismail Haniyeh are contrary to the truth and that no official meeting was scheduled between both parties. Advisor Zaid affirmed that Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas will visit Gaza soon, that he is delighted to do so, and that he is absolutely committed to returning things to normal, resolving the rift, and restoring national unity. Gaza Governor Muhammad al-Qudwa, along with a group of political leaders, dignitaries, and businessmen, welcomed the delegation in the Gaza Governorate's conference hall.

Hikmat Zaid (right) and Marwan Abdulhamid (left) in 2008

Abu Zaid also played a significant role by focusing on community engagement by visits to various villages and meetings with local leaders demonstrating his intent to solve local issues. Additionally, his statements about pushing for the Sixth Fatah General Assembly Conference—the first since 20 years— which can serve a platform for Fatah to reinforce its position, unify its ranks, and prepare for the approaching elections as well as the importance of dialogue with Hamas that reflect ongoing political dynamics and the broader push for unity and democratic processes within the Palestinian territories

Abu Zaid stated that his movement's delegation has no objections to meeting with any party in Gaza, but that the purpose of the visit is to "clarify President Abu Mazen's initiative to restore unity and unify the Palestinian ranks" and that he hopes for "everyone's cooperation," an implicit reference to Hamas. Zaid said that the team will meet "with all active forces in this country and any party that wants to meet with us to discuss any issues," adding that the Palestinian president will visit Gaza "very soon."

In November 2013, Abu Mazen issued a decree refferring Presidential Advisor for Governorate affairs Abu Zaid and several other presidential advisors including Nabil Amr and Sabri Sedam into retirement from their advisory roles while still maintaining his place in the Fatah Advisory Council.

Hekmat Zaid, a member of the Fatah Advisory Council, discussed several organizational and political issues within the movement in an interview with Dunya Al Watan. He noted that the council, despite preparing various proposals and studies, is often not consulted or involved in decision-making. The meeting included discussions on the upcoming seventh conference and related organizational matters, but key issues like appointing a vice president were not addressed.

Zaid highlighted the challenges Fatah faces, particularly regarding the participation of Gaza-based members and ongoing internal conflicts. He expressed concerns about the limited time to resolve these issues before the conference scheduled for November 29. Zaid criticized the lack of consultation with the advisory council and the inefficiency in addressing organizational problems in both Gaza and the West Bank. Despite these challenges, efforts continue to prepare for the conference and ensure comprehensive representation of Fatah members.

Outside of politics

Community Engagement

Under the esteemed patronage of Abu Zaid, Jenin is preparing to warmly welcome the Al-Wahdat team. The visit, which includes a friendly football match in honor of retiring player Montaser Al-Samoudi, reflects Minister Zaid’s commitment to community and sports. His leadership has been instrumental in organizing the event, with several committees formed to ensure its success. Minister Zaid’s guidance underscores his dedication to fostering unity and cultural enrichment through sports.

Under the patronage of Abu Zaid, the Palestinian Bodybuilding Federation Championship for 2008 took place at Al-Rabi' Hall in Kafr Dan, Jenin District. With over sixty contestants and a large audience, the event highlighted Minister Zaid’s commitment to sports and community engagement. Speeches from key figures, including Major General Nazih Na'irat, emphasized the festival’s role in promoting fitness and personal development. Minister Zaid’s support was crucial in making the championship a success, showcasing his dedication to enhancing Jenin's cultural and athletic scene.

Hikmat Zaid (2nd to right) 2001 Rashidieh

Under the patronage of His Excellency Minister Hikmat Zaid, the Future Center for People with Special Needs was inaugurated in Jenin. Minister Zaid, alongside Qais Abdul Karim Abu Laila and other officials, highlighted the center’s vital role in supporting children with special needs. His announcement of a grant from President Mahmoud Abbas underscored his commitment to enhancing care for marginalized communities, marking a significant step towards a more inclusive society.

Hikmat Zaid praised the Emirates Red Crescent campaign for its timely and well-informed aid to Palestinian families in need. He highlighted that this grant is part of a long-standing, responsive support system tailored to the evolving conditions of Palestinians. The campaign, which involved distributing 4,000 food coupons worth 600,000 dirhams, exemplifies ongoing humanitarian efforts effectively managed in collaboration with local officials.

PLO property dispute

Presidential advisor Hikmat Zaid was implicated in facilitating the leakage of a PLO property in Musrara, Jerusalem. Despite attempts to prevent the loss, Zaid reportedly instructed lawyer Fahmi Shabaneh to avoid interfering, suggesting that the property would be reclaimed with the return of Jerusalem. This decision led to Shabaneh’s suspension and the eventual transfer of the property to the Universal Church, highlighting significant issues in the management and protection of PLO assets amidst ongoing political and legal challenges.

Personal life

Hikmat married Itidal in 1971 and had four children with her. They had three sons, named Zaid, Hisham and Samer, and one daughter, named Hadil. Hikmat and his family finally returned to Palestine following the Oslo Peace Accords between Israel and the PLO and in 1994 where he later on became the first Governor of Jenin. Hikmat currently resides in Amman. They have total of 14 grandchildren.

See also

• List of Fatah members
• Palestinian Legislative Council
• Politics of Palestine

External links

• Growing up in the PLO, The Daily Northwestern (16 May 2002)
• AL-KILANI, HIKMAT ZEID, Palestinian Academic Society for the Study of International Affairs
• Fatah and Hamas 'restore trust', BBC News (9 June 2008)