RAMALLAH: In the wake of the United States’ veto at the UN Security Council, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas strongly condemned the US, declaring it “responsible for the bloodshed” of children in the Gaza Strip. The US veto blocked a UN resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in the Palestinian territory during a special meeting.
A statement from Abbas’s office described the American position as aggressive, immoral, and a violation of humanitarian principles. Mahmoud Abbas held the US accountable for the suffering of Palestinian children, women, and elderly people in Gaza. The UN resolution aimed at bringing an immediate end to the Israeli aggression and brutalities against innocent Palestinian civilians.
In an interview with Reuters news agency at his office in Ramallah, President Abbas called for an urgent cessation of the Israeli bombing campaign in Gaza and proposed an international peace conference to formulate a lasting political solution, ultimately leading to the establishment of a Palestinian state. Abbas emphasized the alarming stage of the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians, urging the international community to intervene.
Palestinian President Calls for Peaceful Resolution of Palestine-Israel Conflict
Abbas, favoring negotiation over armed resistance, expressed support for a peaceful resolution through an international conference under world powers’ auspices. He reiterated the need for guarantees and a two-state solution, encompassing the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem.
As Israel increased its strikes on Gaza, Abbas’s call for international intervention gained significance. The conflict has resulted in a devastating toll, with more than 17,490 Palestinians killed, tens of thousands wounded, and a significant displacement of the population.
The Palestinian president further discussed plans to revive the weakened Palestinian Authority based on a binding international agreement. Abbas committed to implementing reforms, and holding elections. He emphasized the PA’s adherence to peace deals with Israel and criticized Israel for not fulfilling its pledges to end the occupation.
Abbas also addressed the issue of holding elections, stressing that they would only proceed if East Jerusalem was included, citing previous bans imposed by Israel on voting in the city. The president did not provide a concrete post-war plan discussed with US officials regarding the Palestinian Authority taking control of Gaza, leaving the situation open-ended.
