Hamas and Islamic Jihad Form Alliance Ahead of Palestinian Legislative Elections

Nearly 20 years after the last Palestinian Legislative Council elections, the Palestinian political landscape is poised for significant change. Hamas, Islamic Jihad, the faction associated with Mohammed Dahlan, and other groups are negotiating a joint alliance for the upcoming elections scheduled for November 28, 2026. These discussions, held in Cairo, may also include the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, the Democratic Front, the Popular Resistance Committees, and independent candidates. Hamas has expressed its desire to run within the broadest possible coalition.

A major development is the potential participation of Islamic Jihad, an organization traditionally known for armed militancy, in the electoral process for the first time without abandoning its military activities. The emerging alliance aims to present itself as an alternative to the current political order and to challenge Fatah. However, Fatah has already stated it will not join a joint list with Hamas. The holding of the elections themselves remains uncertain, as the 2021 elections were canceled before voting took place.

If the elections proceed and the new alliance achieves significant success, the implications will extend beyond parliamentary seat distribution. A victory for Hamas and Islamic Jihad could grant these armed groups formal political and institutional status within the Palestinian leadership while maintaining their military wings.