Gaza holds first election in 21 years

Municipal elections are underway in the occupied West Bank and parts of Gaza, marking the first time residents in the enclave have voted in 21 years.

The pilot vote in Deir el-Balah utilizes a list system that mandates female representation, aiming to restore local governance despite ongoing regional conflict.

While Hamas is officially absent from the electoral lists, experts suggest the group hopes to maintain influence through supportive independent candidates.

Voter turnout is being closely monitored as a gauge of public trust in the Palestinian Authority during a period of extreme political instability.