Palestinian Islamic Jihad rejects current election format

Mohammad al-Hindi, Deputy Secretary-General of Palestinian Islamic Jihad, stated that current political confrontations will reshape the future of Palestine and the region for decades, comparing the impact to the events of 1948. He emphasized the independence of Palestinian decision-making, rejecting claims that resistance movements follow orders from external powers like Iran.

Regarding upcoming elections, al-Hindi argued that the current electoral framework does not meet the aspirations of the Palestinian people and undermines their right to self-determination. He called for postponing elections until a comprehensive national consensus is reached to reform and rebuild the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO). While Palestinian Islamic Jihad will not field its own candidates, the movement expressed support for any unified national list agreed upon by various factions.

In response to President Mahmoud Abbas's decree setting election dates for November 2026, political movements are engaging in consultations, including discussions in Cairo, to form a unified national list. Potential coalitions may include Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and reformist elements of Fatah, aiming to restructure the political landscape.