Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has announced he will not seek re-election in polls in January.
Mr Abbas says he made the decision because of a lack of progress in the peace process.
In a televised speech, Mr Abbas said the impasse in efforts to resume peace negotiations with Israel had prompted his decision not to run again.
However, he reiterated his belief that peace with Israel was "still possible".
The BBC says Mr Abbas could stay in post for some time, however, as the election may be postponed because Hamas says it will not allow a vote in Gaza.
