France urged the Palestinian Authority (PA) on October 11, 2026, to reverse its decision to postpone elections scheduled for November 2026, emphasizing the need for “free and transparent” polls, according to a statement from the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The PA had announced the delay, citing Israeli-imposed obstacles, and set new dates for September 2027, as reported by multiple sources. France, which recognized Palestine as a state in 2025, called the postponement a threat to democratic principles and urged the PA to hold elections “as soon as possible.”
The PA’s decision to delay elections was confirmed by President Mahmud Abbas, who cited “obstacles” from Israeli policies, including restrictions on movement, military operations, and the expansion of settlements in Cisjordan and East Jerusalem. The move followed discussions among Palestinian factions in Cairo, which had previously called for the postponement to allow for a “national dialogue” and address security challenges.
France’s Democratic Demands
A DW report cited a French foreign ministry statement asserting that “the renewal of Palestinian democracy is inseparable from the preservation of the two-state solution.” The ministry also mentioned France’s willingness to support the PA in organizing elections, including through the European Union’s observer mission.
The PA’s decision to delay elections was also criticized for violating commitments made to international leaders. Abbas had committed in writing to Emmanuel Macron and the Saudi crown prince, Mohamed bin Salman, to hold both elections in exchange for France’s recognition of Palestine as a state in September 2025,
according to La Vanguardia. The last presidential elections were held in 2005, and legislative polls in 2006, when Hamas won and expelled Fatah from Gaza a year later.
Internal and International Reactions
The Palestinian Liberation Organization (OLP) cited the lack of implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2803, the absence of an international stabilization force in Gaza, and ongoing Israeli military presence as reasons for the delay. The OLP also noted that Israel had withheld approximately $7 billion in Palestinian tax revenues, exacerbating the electoral environment.
Historical Context and Institutional Challenges
Since the 2007 split between Fatah and Hamas, the Palestinian Legislative Council has not convened, leaving the PA without a functioning legislature.
France’s statement also highlighted the absence of democratic renewal in Palestine, noting that the renewal of Palestinian democracy is inseparable from the preservation of the two-state solution,
as cited by DW. The PA’s current leadership, which has governed by decree since 2009, faces accusations of entrenching power and failing to implement reforms, including ending payments to militants and curbing incitement in education.
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