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Deir al-Balah Holds First Municipal Vote Since 2006, Hamas Boycotts

4/25/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Deir al-Balah voted on 25 April 2026, its first municipal election since 2006 despite Hamas’s boycott.
Four lists contested—most Fatah-aligned or independent, one pro-Hamas—and polling centres used tents and open fields.
Political analyst Reham Owda said the vote, referencing President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace plan, could gauge Hamas’s popularity and signal PA governance claims.

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Story summary

Deir al-Balah voted on 25 April 2026, its first municipal election since 2006 despite Hamas’s boycott.
Four lists contested—most Fatah-aligned or independent, one pro-Hamas—and polling centres used tents and open fields.
Political analyst Reham Owda said the vote, referencing President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace plan, could gauge Hamas’s popularity and signal PA governance claims.