France, UK, Canada, Australia Regret Palestinian Election Postponement

France, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia expressed deep disappointment Tuesday following Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas's decision to postpone Palestinian legislative and presidential elections until September 2027. In a joint statement released by their foreign ministers, the four nations urged Ramallah to reverse the decision and hold elections as soon as possible.

The signatories noted that nearly twenty years have passed since the last elections for the Palestinian Legislative Council, and the vote initially scheduled for 2021 had already been postponed. "An entire generation of Palestinians has come of age without the ability to choose their elected representatives," they lamented, warning that the new delay risks further eroding public trust in Palestinian democratic institutions.

While acknowledging the significant obstacles to organizing elections that meet international standards, particularly ensuring participation for all Palestinian voters, the four countries commended the efforts of the Central Election Commission. They emphasized that credible elections are a crucial component of the reforms promised by Mahmoud Abbas, especially concerning governance and democratic renewal.

The ministers also stated that strengthening Palestinian institutions is essential for implementing a two-state solution. They reaffirmed their support for Palestinian self-determination and called on Israel not to take any measures that could hinder the electoral process, specifically regarding practical arrangements for the participation of all Palestinians.

Finally, the four nations reiterated their opposition to any participation by Hamas in future Palestinian governance. "Hamas cannot play any role in the future governance of Palestine," they insisted, while assuring their continued support for efforts to enable the holding of legislative and presidential elections.