Abbas Postpones Palestinian Elections to 2027, Blames Israel

According to the decree and official statements, the postponement is due to deteriorating security, political, and economic conditions, as well as obstacles posed by Israel. The PA cited Israeli military activity in Judea and Samaria and East Jerusalem, the presence of the Israeli army in Gaza, restrictions on movement, and the withholding of tax revenues. The PA also stated that Israel refused to allow election commission representatives and observers into Gaza and East Jerusalem, where the PA had formally requested permission to operate.

Reports indicate that Abbas's decision is also driven by political fears of losing power. A new alliance has reportedly formed against the 90-year-old Abbas, whose presidential term officially ended in 2009. This bloc includes the terrorist organizations Hamas and Islamic Jihad, alongside Abbas's exiled Fatah rival, Mohammed Dahlan, who currently serves as an advisor to the ruler of the United Arab Emirates. Abbas reportedly feared his Fatah party would lose to a unified national list backed by this alliance.

Prior to the announcement, Deputy PA Chairman Hussein al-Sheikh informed France of a multi-month delay due to the worsening conditions. France has been pushing for PA elections and reforms, linking them to international recognition of a Palestinian state. The last Palestinian general elections were held in 2006.