Mahmoud Abbas , also known by the kunya Abu Mazen , was elected President of the Palestinian National Authority on January 9, 2005, and took office on January 15, 2005.

Abbas is a leading politician in Fatah. He served as the first Prime Minister of the Palestinian Authority from March to October 2003 when he resigned citing lack of support from Israel and the United States as well as "internal incitement" against his government. Before being named Prime Minister, Abbas led the PLO's Negotiations Affairs Department. He has served as Chairman of the PLO Executive Committee since November 11, 2004, after Yasser Arafat's death. Abbas is frequently portrayed by Israel and the West as the face of Palestinian moderation.