According to the Central Elections Commission, nearly 1.5 million voters are registered in the West Bank, along with around 70,000 in the Gaza city of Deir el-Balah.
The elections feature a narrow political field, with most candidate lists aligned with Fatah, led by President Mahmud Abbas, or running as independents. Notably absent are candidates affiliated with Hamas, which controls much of Gaza.
In several key cities such as Ramallah and Nablus, only one electoral list was submitted, effectively guaranteeing victory without a vote—highlighting the lack of electoral competition.
Voter sentiment reflects widespread disillusionment. Residents like those in Tulkarem, where Israeli military presence remains strong, expressed skepticism about the elections’ impact. Many see the process as symbolic rather than transformative under ongoing occupation.
Polling stations in the West Bank are open from morning until evening, while voting in Deir el-Balah will close earlier due to electricity shortages in the war-affected enclave.
Despite the challenges, UN officials, including Ramiz Alakbarov, described the elections as a “credible process” and an important opportunity for Palestinians to exercise democratic rights during a period of crisis
