Palestinians in Gaza’s Deir al-Balah elect local leaders in first election in two decades
Summary
Palestinians in Deir al-Balah, a community in Gaza, held local elections for the first time in over 20 years. These elections were also held in parts of the Israeli-occupied West Bank and are seen as a step toward future presidential elections and possible Palestinian statehood.Key Facts
- The local elections took place on April 25, 2026, in Deir al-Balah, Gaza, and the West Bank.
- This was the first election in part of Hamas-run Gaza in more than two decades.
- Voter turnout was 23% in Gaza and 56% in the West Bank.
- Hamas did not participate in or block the Gaza vote.
- Candidates had to accept the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) program, which recognizes Israel and renounces armed struggle.
- The elections focused on choosing local councils responsible for services like water, roads, and electricity.
- The Palestinian Authority hopes these local elections will lead to presidential and legislative elections.
- The Palestinian Authority has not held a presidential election for 21 years; President Mahmoud Abbas is 90 years old.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.