All Policy Analysis by Pierre-Arnaud Blanchard

Because both U.S. plans in Gaza and the stability of the West Bank depend on a legitimate, reformed Palestinian Authority and a credible alternative to Hamas governance, national elections are essential—leaving the international community with little choice but to redouble its efforts and prepare for the rescheduled vote in 2027.

Although the unprecedented decision to jointly prohibit trade with settlements raises difficult diplomatic and political questions amid a weighty Israeli election cycle, the announcement will also have important effects beyond that date, signaling that many countries will prioritize this issue in their relations with whatever government voters choose.