Abbas in Cairo for talks with El Sisi as Palestinian factions manoeuvre for November elections

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Cairo on Wednesday to discuss Gaza, the ceasefire, and Palestinian reconciliation. The meeting took place amid a rapidly changing landscape in Palestinian politics and uncertainty surrounding the timing of legislative elections. During the talks, El Sisi emphasized that the Palestinian cause "will remain the central issue in the region until a just and comprehensive settlement is reached" and reaffirmed Egypt's support for a two-state solution.

He also expressed Egypt's backing for the Palestinian Authority and efforts to foster consensus among various Palestinian forces. Egypt pledged to work with mediators to implement the Gaza ceasefire, which was reached at the Sharm El Sheikh peace summit in October 2025. However, the political situation in Palestine appears volatile, with Abbas having set November 28 as the date for the legislative elections, calling for participation from Palestinians across the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza.

Yet, Fatah secretary general Jibril Rajoub recently stated that the legislative vote may not occur on schedule and called for a comprehensive national dialogue. The election remains uncertain, as Abbas retains the power to postpone or cancel it.