The Jerusalem Post describes how Israel has begun referring to Abu Mazen as the President, rather than Chairman of the Palestinian Authority (PA) in an attempt to strengthen his position vis-à-vis Ismail Haniyeh of Hamas.

While upgrading the status of the leader of the PA is important, Israel should focus on upgrading the status of the PA itself.

The possible failure of the negotiations currently taking place between the two sides is likely to weaken the Palestinian moderate camp - accelerating the erosion of the 'two-state principle' and increasing Palestinian voices calling for the dismantling of the PA. Such a scenario would deepen Israel's responsibility for the citizens of the West Bank. (See: Deluxe Occupation)

Therefore, instead of 'personalizing' the PA by concentrating on its leader, Israel should consider steps to upgrade the political and sovereign status of the PA. This may help it survive in the event that negotiations ultimately fail and the principle of separation between Israel and the Palestinians is undermined.

For more information see:

What if Olmert-Abbas Talks Go Wrong??

The Roadmap and the Future of a Palestinian State

Is it time to Upgrade the Political Status of the Palestinian Authority?

Upgrading the Political Status of the Palestinian Authority

Sources

Herb Keinon, Jerusalem Post, 9/16/07; full article