Poll: Majority of Palestinians Reject Abbas's Conditions for Candidacy and Demand His Resignation

A poll by the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research shows that a majority of Palestinians reject Mahmoud Abbas's conditions for running in the legislative elections, and confidence in the Authority has declined. 76% are dissatisfied with Abbas's performance, and 79% demand his resignation. About two-thirds of the public consider the Authority a burden and believe the elections will not be free and fair. Hamas outperforms other factions in its ability to achieve priorities.

A public opinion poll conducted by the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research, published by Palestine Online, showed that a majority of Palestinians reject the conditions set by Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas for candidates in the upcoming legislative elections. The Center stated that the poll was conducted in the West Bank and Gaza Strip between August 5 and 8, 2026, and that about two-thirds of Palestinians oppose the requirement that candidates accept the commitments of the Palestine Liberation Organization, including agreements signed with the Israeli occupation. The results showed that a sweeping majority see corruption in the Authority's institutions, and about two-thirds of the public described the Authority as a "burden on the Palestinian people." Regarding the elections scheduled for November, 49% said they believe they will be held on time, compared to 44% who do not expect that. However, about two-thirds of the public believe they will not be free and fair. 54% supported holding them even if the occupation refuses to allow that in Jerusalem. Unifying the West Bank and Gaza, ending the war, and reconstruction topped the list of priorities, and Hamas outperformed other factions in its ability to achieve them. The poll showed that 76% are dissatisfied with Abbas's performance, and 79% demanded his resignation.