Palestinian legislative elections scheduled for November 2026

The Palestinian Presidency has announced that legislative elections are scheduled to take place on November 28, 2026. The Central Elections Commission has established detailed timelines for candidacy, campaigning, and voting.

The elections occur amidst a highly complex political and security environment. In the West Bank, the situation is marked by continued settlement expansion, increased settler violence, and movement restrictions. Reports from August 2026 indicate that approximately 12,360 settlement units have been approved since the start of the year, with $431 million allocated for 34 new settlements.

Public trust in leadership remains low. A survey by the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research in August 2026 found that 79% of respondents desire the resignation of President Mahmoud Abbas, while 44% believe neither Fatah nor Hamas is fit to lead. Among potential voters, Fatah holds 32% support, Hamas holds 29%, and third-party forces hold 18%.

Several scenarios face the upcoming vote, including the possibility of comprehensive elections across the West Bank, Gaza, and Jerusalem, or potential delays and regional divisions. Key challenges include the participation of Gaza and Jerusalem, the formation of political alliances, and the ability of the Palestinian Authority to manage the political aftermath and ensure the legitimacy of the results.