Lack of basic services drives turnout as Palestinians vote in West Bank polls, Gaza pilot held

Palestinians cast their votes in local body elections across parts of the West Bank and, for the first time in over two decades, in a limited area of Gaza, officials told Associated Press.

The polling in Deir al-Balah in central Gaza was described as a largely symbolic “pilot” exercise, aimed at politically reconnecting Gaza with the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority. President Mahmoud Abbas, facing declining popularity and exclusion from US-backed postwar plans for Gaza, is seeking to reinforce claims for a future Palestinian state spanning both territories.

Hamas did not participate in the Deir al-Balah vote. The area, though hit by airstrikes, avoided a full-scale Israeli ground offensive during the prolonged conflict. More than 70,000 residents were eligible to vote in the municipal polls.

Turnout in Gaza remained low, but voters said the lack of basic services pushed them to take part. Across both regions, the elections are crucial for forming local councils responsible for essential services such as water supply, roads and electricity.

In the West Bank, participation levels were close to previous elections, with officials reporting an overall turnout of 53.4%, while Deir al-Balah recorded 22.7%. Results are expected to be announced on Sunday.

The Palestinian Authority, which governs parts of the West Bank, has not held national elections since 2006. It organised the local polls following reforms introduced last year under pressure from international allies.

Officials said the elections are part of a broader effort to administratively and politically link Gaza and the West Bank. However, logistical challenges persisted, with authorities improvising voting materials in Gaza amid reported restrictions on supplies.

Political analysts note that public confidence in leadership remains low, with campaigning often driven more by local families and clans than by political parties. In several cities, elections were uncontested, while in others, residents questioned whether the process could bring meaningful change.