Remarks by senior official in terror group will likely come as a relief to PA President Abbas, who polls indicate would lose in a head-to-head with Hamas chief Haniyeh

In letter ahead of scheduled Palestinian elections, senior PA official said to inform US that Hamas also agreed to obey international law and accept a peaceful transfer of power

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

Israel demands ballots only in West Bank and Gaza, but hoped-for capital is a red line for the PA, which could use the issue as an excuse to halt the first PA election in 15 years

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

Tune in Sunday through Thursday to hear ToI editors and reporters quickly catch you up on what’s important today

Tune in Sunday through Thursday to hear ToI editors and reporters quickly catch you up on what’s important today

Abbas confidant Hussein al-Sheikh visits popular former terror chief in jail, where he's serving multiple life terms for murder, in reported attempt to convince him not to run