Overview

• Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, 89, has named Rawhi Fattouh, chairman of the Palestinian National Council, as his interim successor in case of vacancy.
• Fattouh, a longtime ally of Abbas and a senior member of Fatah, previously served as interim president after Yasser Arafat's death in 2004.
• The interim presidency would last no longer than 90 days, during which new presidential elections are expected to be held.
• Abbas’ decision comes amid growing speculation over his health and external pressures, including Saudi Arabia’s reported push for him to name a deputy.
• The announcement addresses immediate succession concerns but leaves uncertainty about long-term leadership, as Fattouh was not named a permanent deputy.