Mahmoud Abbas's Strategic Moves Ahead of Fatah Congress
As the Fatah congress approaches, 90-year-old Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is maneuvering to secure a powerful position for his son, Yasser Abbas, within the party's central committee.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, who is currently 90 years old, is reportedly working to ensure that his son, Yasser Abbas, gains a position on the central committee of the Fatah party.
This committee serves as the executive body of Fatah, which holds significant influence in the West Bank. The upcoming congress is seen as a critical moment for the party's leadership.
The potential elevation of Yasser Abbas could extend the family's influence within Fatah, a movement that has been dominant in Palestinian politics for decades.
Updates
Update at 09:09 UTC on 2026-05-17
France 24 reported Yasser Abbas, the 64-year-old son of ageing Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas, won a seat Sunday on the central committee of the Fatah party, initial results showed. The election extended the family's grip on the movement that has dominat.
Sources: France 24