Hamas Leader Confirms Participation in 2026 Palestinian Legislative Elections, Rejects Governing Role

Hamas leader Hossam Badran announced that the organization will participate in the Palestinian Legislative Council elections scheduled for November 28, 2026, despite opposition from some Western countries. In an interview with Al-Arabiya, Badran emphasized that Hamas will not withdraw from any elections and that its participation stems from the right of every Palestinian to engage politically and to prevent monopolization of Palestinian decision-making.

Badran clarified that Hamas's decision to run does not indicate a desire to seize power, stating that the group has "relinquished control over Gaza." Instead, Hamas aims to represent the Palestinian people within the legislative council without seeking to govern. He also expressed willingness to accept the election results and highlighted the organization's intent to pursue further discussions to form electoral alliances.

The Hamas leader called for collective management within the Palestinian Legislative Council, stressing that Hamas's involvement is meant to foster partnership in decision-making rather than government domination. This will not be Hamas's first electoral participation; the group previously ran in the 2006 elections before its 2007 takeover of Gaza following a coup.