The Israeli security establishment is discussing whether to allow the Palestinian Authority to hold elections in Jerusalem, according to the Israel Public Broadcasting Corporation.
It's a condition that PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas set for holding a general election for the PA parliament that was dissolved a year ago. Reasons raised against allowing the PA to hold elections also in Jerusalem: a violation of Israeli sovereignty, a green light for Hamas propaganda in the city and the possibility that Hamas will be strengthened in such elections. Reasons in favor: Such a move will generate positive reactions in the international community, Israel will not appear to have thwarted a democratic process in the PA, and the PA may be strengthened in the elections if Fatah wins. The final decision will belong to the diplomatic-security cabinet.