Al-bireh: President Mahmoud Abbas cast his vote on Saturday in the 2026 local elections at the polling station in Al-Mustaqbal Al-Saleh School in Al-Bireh. Following his vote, the President expressed satisfaction with the ability to practice democracy despite challenges, affirming the commitment to hold elections as scheduled.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, President Abbas highlighted the ongoing sequence of democratic processes, beginning with student youth elections, followed by local council elections, the upcoming Fatah movement elections next month, and the Palestinian National Council elections later this year. He emphasized the Palestinians' dedication to democratic values and political pluralism, underscoring their aspiration for an independent state with East Jerusalem as its capital.
President Abbas also addressed the situation in the Gaza Strip, noting the daily conflicts and attempts at division, which he stated will not be sanctioned. He reaffirmed Gaza's integral status within the State of Palestine, mentioning that elections in Deir Al-Balah are intended to strengthen national unity, with the hope of conducting broader elections in Gaza once circumstances permit.
