Hamas, Islamic Jihad and Ex-Fatah Leader Form Unlikely Palestinian Electoral Coalition

Hamas, Islamic Jihad, and a former Fatah official form an unexpected alliance, challenging Abbas' dominance in upcoming elections.

Editorial Desk

September 30, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Istanbul, Turkey — Hamas and the Islamic Jihad have formed an unexpected electoral alliance with a former top Fatah official, signaling a potential shift in the political landscape of the Palestinian territories.

The coalition includes Mohammed Dahlan, a former Fatah security chief who has close ties to the United Arab Emirates. This alliance could challenge the long-standing dominance of President Mahmoud Abbas’ Fatah party, but the success of the coalition depends on whether the first national elections in 20 years will actually take place.

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Dahlan’s involvement brings a new dynamic to the political scene, as he has cultivated strong connections with U.S. and Israeli officials. The alliance appears to be rooted in shared frustration with Abbas’ leadership, which is seen as autocratic and ineffective by many Palestinians.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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