Canada, Australia, UK and France Call for Palestinian Elections Without Further Delay After Abbas Postpones Vote
Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom and France have urged the Palestinian Authority to hold presidential and parliamentary elections without further delay after President Mahmoud Abbas postponed the vote until September 11, 2027. In a joint statement issued on October 13, 2026, the four countries warned that continued postponements threaten democratic accountability and public confidence in Palestinian institutions. Abbas cited Israeli restrictions and security conditions in Gaza, East Jerusalem and the West Bank. The governments acknowledged these obstacles but called for practical arrangements to ensure inclusive elections. The European Union has also expressed regret over the decision, highlighting the importance of democratic reform and Palestinian self-determination.