Israel accuses Palestinian president of ‘fooling’ world with election delay

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar accused Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas of misleading the international community by allegedly planning to postpone upcoming legislative elections. The PA has not officially announced a delay, but many Palestinians anticipate the election postponement, similar to the one in 2021. Saar declared on X, "Mahmoud Abbas is fooling the international community by cancelling once again promised elections."

He added, "They keep deceiving. Consequences? Not for the corrupt PA!" The last legislative elections in the Palestinian territories took place two decades ago, and holding polls is a demand of the international community, including the EU. Palestinian factions, including Abbas' Fatah and rival Hamas, have agreed to hold a national dialogue before the November elections, but some sources suggest they may seek to postpone the vote.

Israel had previously denied Palestinian election officials access to east Jerusalem and Gaza, fueling concerns about a postponed vote. In September, Fatah official Jibril Rajoub stated that the November elections would not be held on time. The last legislative elections occurred in 2006, with Hamas defeating Fatah and subsequently seizing control of Gaza.

Since then, the Palestinian Legislative Council has not convened, and Abbas has ruled by decree. In June, he signed a decree allowing elections to take place in early 2027.