President Trump, stand with Palestinian democracy - opinion
Mr. President, do not allow the door to Palestinian democracy to be closed again. Your public support can keep it open - and help change the future of the Middle East.
President Trump is urged to support Palestinian democracy by endorsing the November 28 legislative elections, despite efforts to postpone or cancel them. The United States has the right to deny entry to individuals for security or legal reasons, but a blanket restriction against an entire people would be unwise and counterproductive.
Denying Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas a visa aims to pressure the leadership to enact long-awaited reforms, but this approach is only effective when paired with a clear, constructive policy that promotes democratic change. The most significant opportunity for Palestinian reform is now at hand, with Abbas calling for elections after a two-decade gap.
Several influential Palestinian figures are attempting to halt or cancel the elections, possibly enlisting the US or regional nations to close the democratic door again. US President Trump should not allow his name to be associated with this attempt. Supporting the elections would send a powerful message that peaceful political change is possible and that Palestinian society can break free from the cycle of authoritarian stagnation and armed extremism.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
