In Gaza, after 20 years without elections, an uncertain vote

Rubble from residential buildings destroyed by Israeli airstrikes in Gaza, September 22, 2026. DAWOUD ABU ALKAS/REUTERS In Gaza City, scarred by Israeli bombs that have erased its iconic towers, Assil al-Louh has no shortage of reasons to want elections. At 32, she has never been able to take part in one. The last national vote held in the Gaza Strip was in 2006, when Hamas claimed victory and then ruled the territory with an iron fist. The mother of three, who has a degree in information technology and is now unemployed, would like to see new Palestinian leaders emerge. "People need to change for mindsets to change," she told us by phone – the only way to reach Gaza's residents, as Israel has barred foreign media from entering for nearly three years. But to vote now? She barely hesitates: "We are not ready." In Gaza, where more than 80% of buildings have been damaged, priorities lie elsewhere: finding drinking water, searching for food, protecting children from Israeli attacks. "There aren't even passable roads," al-Louh added. She has survived five Israeli offensives since 2008. The last one killed her 29-year-old brother in December 2024. Nearly 3 million Palestinians, including 1.24 million Gazans, are, in principle, being called to elect their Parliament on November 28. You have 82.35% of this article left to read. The rest is for subscribers only.