Mahmoud Abbas, the President of Palestine, issued a decree postponing the legislative elections until September 11, 2027. These elections, which were previously scheduled for November 28, have been delayed along with the presidential elections expected to be held early next year. This election is considered the first Palestinian election in over 20 years.
Reasons for the Delay in Holding Elections
In his decree, Abbas cited existing obstacles created by Israeli actions as the main reason for this delay. He noted that violence from Israeli settlers, military attacks, and movement restrictions in the West Bank and East Jerusalem have acted as major barriers to holding "free, fair, and inclusive elections."
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Additionally, in Gaza, which has been under Israeli attacks for three years, exceptional security and humanitarian conditions, the incomplete withdrawal of Israeli forces, and lack of progress in reconstruction are other reasons mentioned in this decree.
Background and International Implications
Abbas had previously committed to French President Emmanuel Macron and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to hold elections as part of France's recognition of the Palestinian state. The delay in holding these elections occurred just weeks after Abbas reaffirmed this commitment in a video speech at the United Nations General Assembly.
Since the end of Abbas's presidential term in 2009, he has continued to govern by decree, and this delay may increase pressure on him to hold democratic elections. Furthermore, this action has also elicited international reactions.
Gideon Sa'ar, Israel's Foreign Minister, reacted to this news on social media platform X, describing the decree as a "ridiculous lie" issued to evade responsibility and accountability. This remark reflects the existing tensions among various parties in the region.
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