Palestinians vote in local elections in the West Bank and part of Gaza

Palestinians will vote in local elections, the first in two decades in Gaza and the first in the occupied West Bank since the start of the Israel-Hamas war.

Turnout in Saturday's vote for village and municipal councils may reflect the level of public trust in a broader system led by aging leaders in the West Bank and as Gaza prepares for an anticipated transition from Hamas rule.

The Palestinian Authority has promoted the local races following reforms it enacted last year following demands from international backers.

Analysts say the lack of candidates and party participation reflect political disillusionment under the authority’s aging leadership, including 90-year-old President Mahmoud Abbas.