Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas delivered a video address at the high-level International Conference on a Peaceful Settlement of the Palestinian Question and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia in New York.
Abbas condemned what he called Israel’s "crimes" and denounced Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel, while staking the State of Palestine’s claim as the only legitimate authority to govern post-war Gaza. He called for a permanent ceasefire and guaranteed delivery of humanitarian aid through the United Nations and UNRWA, pressing for the immediate release of hostages and prisoners.
He outlined a clear road map: withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, a humanitarian reconstruction effort in Gaza and the West Bank, and a democratic transition within a year of the war’s end. To underpin this shift, Abbas pledged to draft a provisional constitution within three months, guiding the move from an authority to full statehood.
Highlighting governance reforms, he stressed that "Hamas will have no role in governance," urging all armed factions to hand over their weapons to the Palestinian Authority. Abbas also thanked nations that have recognized the State of Palestine and appealed to others to follow suit, boosting support for Palestine’s full UN membership.
The conference takes place against the backdrop of Abbas addressing the UN General Assembly remotely, after the United States withheld a travel visa. His speech underscores growing international calls for peace, justice and a two-state solution that could reshape the region’s future.
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Abbas condemns Israel's 'crimes,' calls for permanent ceasefire
cgtn.com
