Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas issued a decree on Thursday setting legislative elections for November 28 across all Palestinian territories, including the occupied West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza. If held, this would be the first such vote in 20 years.

The last legislative elections in 2006 saw a shock victory by Hamas, leading to a political split with Abbas's Fatah party and culminating in Hamas taking control of Gaza in 2007. The upcoming vote is seen as an attempt to address international pressure for legitimacy and reform.

Al Jazeera's Nour Odeh reported from Ramallah that the decision follows dialogue between Palestinian leadership and foreign powers, notably France and Saudi Arabia, who seek reforms in the Palestinian Authority to enable much-needed assistance.

Several hurdles remain. Israel must allow voting in occupied East Jerusalem; in 2021, elections were canceled after Israel failed to guarantee this. In Gaza, Israel's genocidal war has displaced nearly all of the 2.1 million residents, destroyed over 90% of infrastructure, and left the population registry outdated, posing major logistical challenges.

Abbas, elected to a four-year term in 2005, has remained in power for over 15 years, ruling by decree and facing accusations of corruption and authoritarianism. Last month, he announced presidential elections for early next year but did not confirm his candidacy. Public enthusiasm is tempered, though polls show overwhelming demand for leadership change.

Source: www.aljazeera.com