Mahmoud Abbas, who has led the Palestinian Authority since 2005, continues to consolidate his position as the 90-year-old president was unanimously re-elected Fatah leader at the movement’s May 2026 congress. He pledged reforms and long-delayed presidential and legislative elections without setting a date, while positioning allies including his son on the central committee. An October 2025 constitutional declaration named deputy Hussein al-Sheikh as interim successor for up to 90 days pending new voting. With no scheduled national elections or announced resignation, trader assessments reflect limited near-term pressure for change, though local polls later in 2026 and internal Fatah dynamics could influence succession timelines if health or political shifts emerge.