Story perspectives
Abbas Calls for Historic Palestinian Elections Amid Reform Pressure
2/3/2026
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Story summary
- Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas announced Palestinian National Council elections on November 1, the first direct popular vote for its members.
- He seeks broad participation from Palestinians worldwide.
- The Palestinian Authority faces reform pressure over corruption and is excluded from the Gaza peace process.
- Critics say he delayed elections to avoid losing power.
- The European Union will donate €1.6 billion to anti-corruption reforms.
