PA presidential decree bans all police pursuits, detentions in the West Bank and Gaza for 'reasons related to freedom of expression and political affiliation'

Terrorist jailed by Israel for murder challenges Abbas; if he wins, it could put the Jewish state in a serious bind

First round of voting reportedly already held clandestinely by Hamas prisoners in Israeli jails

Ahead of plans to hold first national legislative elections in 15 years, many observers remain skeptical that the vote will take place

More than 90% of Gaza City's 385,000 eligible voters have already registered to participate in Palestinian elections, even as some look for excuses to cancel ballot

While broadly supportive, Washington has reacted cooly to the initiative which may end up strengthening Hamas, just as the White House is looking to renew ties with Ramallah

Deal reached at Cairo summit between 14 factions; Palestinians are skeptical that the vote will be held at all, as election promises have fallen through before

Representatives of 14 groups gather in Egyptian capital; negotiations may send Palestinians to the ballot box after 15 years, but observers skeptical

The ex-envoy maintains the last 4 years were an unequivocal success, thanks to the White House's 'inexperienced' crew, which smashed precedent and forged a new path

Fatah and Hamas have not held elections in 15 years, despite numerous promises to do so, and technical issues could prevent the vote from being held this time too