UK and partners criticise decision to postpone Palestinian elections

The United Kingdom, France, Australia, and Canada have voiced their opposition to President Mahmoud Abbas's decision to delay the Palestinian presidential and legislative council elections until September 2027. The countries highlighted that over two decades have passed since the last legislative council elections, and five years have elapsed since the 2021 elections were suspended.

In a joint statement, the foreign ministers expressed concern that an entire generation of Palestinians has grown up without the chance to elect their representatives. They emphasized that the postponement once again denies Palestinians the right to vote and weakens faith in democratic institutions. While acknowledging the challenges facing the elections, the countries praised the Central Elections Commission's efforts to overcome these obstacles and boost voter participation.

The ministers reminded Abbas and the Palestinian Authority of their pledge to enact reforms, such as democratic renewal and accountable governance, as outlined in the June 2025 New York Declaration. They stressed that bolstering Palestinian governance is crucial for establishing the institutional framework of a viable two-state solution, which they deemed "the sole route to enduring peace and security for both Israel and Palestine."

The countries urged the Palestinian Authority to reconsider its postponement and promptly organize the elections. They also reiterated their demand that Israel cease actions that could hinder the election process. Furthermore, the UK, France, Australia, and Canada reaffirmed their long-held stance that Hamas should have no involvement in the future governance of Palestine.