Palestinians hold first elections since Gaza war
Get the Geopolitics newsletter
Daily geopolitics — wars, elections, sanctions, the diplomatic moves that move markets. Free.
- Palestinian Authority oversees the Central Elections Commission, which registered 1.5 million West Bank voters and 70,000 Gaza voters for the municipal polls.
- Fatah fielded candidates in most cities, competing primarily against independent lists that include members of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine.
- Turnout was reported at 15 % by late morning, indicating widespread voter disillusionment despite the historic vote.
- European Union hailed the elections as an “important step toward broader democratisation and strengthened local governance,” while UN coordinator Ramiz Alakbarov also commended the process.
Why it matters: The Palestinian Authority gains legitimacy for its municipal councils, while Hamas loses political foothold in Gaza; turnout at 15% limits the mandate, and donor funding may be contingent on further reforms.
