Hamas has announced its intention to participate in the upcoming Palestinian legislative elections scheduled for November 28, marking the first vote of its kind in two decades, according to senior members of the group. Husam Badran, a member of Hamas’s political bureau, confirmed the plan during an August 12 interview with Al-Aqsa TV, stating that the movement aims to run as part of a broad national coalition.

Hamas previously secured a significant victory in the 2006 Palestinian Legislative Council elections, winning 74 seats compared to Fatah’s 45. The group’s renewed involvement signals a potential shift in the Palestinian political landscape, which has been without legislative elections since that time.

Analysts suggest that Hamas may seek alternative routes to participate in this election cycle. Kobi Michael, a researcher at the Institute for National Security Studies, noted that Hamas might choose to compete through a new party or alliance. This approach would enable the group to navigate electoral requirements, including mandates that candidates acknowledge the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) as the sole legitimate representative of the Palestinian people.

Badran described the upcoming election as a “historic opportunity” for political change, while also expressing criticism of the conditions placed on parties wishing to participate. He emphasized that Jerusalem and the al-Aqsa Mosque would remain central priorities for Hamas, underscoring the religious site’s role as a core element of the ongoing conflict with Israel.

The announcement comes amid broader efforts to revive Palestinian political processes after years of division and stalemate. The November election represents a significant development, as it could redefine power dynamics within Palestinian territories and influence relations with Israel and the international community.