Hamas Praises Palestinian Election Postponement, Calls for National Dialogue

Hamas has welcomed the Palestinian Authority's decision to postpone legislative and presidential elections, originally slated for November 2026 and now rescheduled for September 2027. The group stated that this postponement, following the cancellation of a previous decree, is a step in the right direction. Hamas reiterated its long-standing position on the necessity of rebuilding and reforming Palestinian national institutions through free and fair elections, which it considers a national priority for unifying the Palestinian people and protecting their rights.

The organization believes that the current political, security, and field conditions across all occupied Palestinian territories, including Jerusalem, are not conducive to holding elections. Hamas views the delay as an opportunity that "must lead to a comprehensive, serious, and fruitful national dialogue." The group expressed its readiness to participate in such a dialogue to reach clear, binding agreements on organizing Palestinian affairs, particularly concerning the National and Legislative Councils. They also emphasized the need to agree on a comprehensive national strategy, including a political program, managing the transitional phase, and confronting "serious Zionist threats" targeting the Palestinian cause, especially in Gaza, which is facing what Hamas described as a "genocidal war and displacement."