Palestinians in Gaza and the occupied West Bank cast ballots on 25 April 2026 in the first local elections held in over 20 years.The vote marks a significant moment amid ongoing conflict and political challenges in the region.In Gaza's Deir el-Balah area, approximately 70,000 registered voters participated in municipal elections, conducted through a list system that mandates female representation.Polling stations opened at 7am local time, with the vote described by officials as a "pilot" exercise.The elections come amid ongoing Israeli military attacks and a tightly restricted political environment.The Palestinian Authority (PA) aims to restore local governance despite the destruction in... [Continue Reading]