Palestinian legislative elections face potential postponement

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas issued a decree setting November 28 for the Palestinian legislative elections, the first since 2006. However, significant obstacles suggest the vote may be postponed.

Key challenges include the lack of a comprehensive national dialogue between factions, the absence of guarantees for voting in Jerusalem, and the lack of Palestinian Authority control in the Gaza Strip. Political figures, including Fatah member Jibril Rajoub, have expressed skepticism regarding the feasibility of the scheduled date, citing the need for political reform and inclusive dialogue with the PLO.

Observers and political analysts suggest the elections could be delayed until the first or second quarter of next year. Concerns have been raised regarding potential Israeli obstruction and the security situation in Gaza, specifically the lack of protections for polling stations. Meanwhile, Hamas leadership has held meetings in Cairo with various factions to discuss the election issue, and Fatah's Revolutionary Council has expressed intent to participate via a joint national list coordinated with PLO factions.