Call for Peace: Palestinian President Advocates an End to Gaza War, Urges Conference for Settlement
In a recent interview with Reuters, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has urgently appealed for an end to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The 87-year-old leader stressed the need for an international peace conference to address the deep-rooted issues between Israel and the Palestinians, emphasizing the necessity of guarantees from world powers.
President Abbas expressed his concern about the alarming escalation of the conflict, not only in Gaza but also in the occupied West Bank, where he noted an increase in Israeli attacks over the past year. He highlighted the intensification of violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinian towns in the West Bank.
Reiterating his longstanding commitment to peaceful negotiation over armed resistance, Abbas stated, "I am with peaceful resistance. I am for negotiations based on an international peace conference and under international auspices that would lead to a solution protected by world powers to establish a sovereign Palestinian state in the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem."
As Israel has escalated its strikes on Gaza, resulting in a significant humanitarian crisis, Abbas's call for an international conference gains urgency. However, a senior U.S. official mentioned that while the idea of such a conference has been discussed, it remains at a preliminary stage.
President Abbas outlined his plans to revive the weakened Palestinian Authority based on a binding international agreement. This includes implementing long-awaited reforms and conducting presidential and parliamentary elections, which were suspended after Hamas's victory in 2006.
Abbas emphasized the Palestinian Authority's adherence to peace deals since the 1993 Oslo Accord but accused Israel of failing to fulfill its commitments to end the occupation. The situation remains complex, with the call for an immediate ceasefire and a comprehensive political resolution echoing amidst the ongoing strife in the region.
In a recent interview, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas emphasized his commitment to democratic elections, stating, "Whoever wins wins; these will be democratic elections." He revealed that planned elections in April 2021 were postponed due to Israel's objection to voting in East Jerusalem, a non-negotiable element for Abbas. East Jerusalem holds significance for Palestinians as the future capital of their state.
President Abbas did not outline a concrete post-war plan discussed with U.S. officials regarding the Palestinian Authority's potential control over Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has opposed such a scenario. Abbas criticized the United States for not compelling Israel to implement the two-state solution and fulfill its obligations.
Despite challenges, Abbas asserted the Palestinian Authority's presence in Gaza as an institution, still disbursing monthly salaries and expenses, estimated at $140 million, for employees, pensioners, and needy families. He highlighted the urgent need for resources and international support for Gaza's reconstruction, emphasizing the devastation wrought upon its hospitals, schools, infrastructure, and mosques.
Blaming the United States for its support of Israel, Abbas stated, "America is an accomplice of Israel," holding it responsible for the ongoing conflict in Gaza. As tensions persist, Abbas called on the international community to pressure Israel to halt the war and fulfill its obligations. The situation remains complex, with Abbas navigating the intricate diplomatic landscape to advocate for the rights and reconstruction of the Palestinian territories.
President Mahmoud Abbas's recent statements shed light on the complex diplomatic challenges facing the Palestinian territories. His commitment to democratic elections and insistence on East Jerusalem's role in the electoral process underscore the deep-rooted issues in the region. The postponed elections, impacted by Israel's objection, highlight the intricate negotiations required for any political progress.
The absence of a concrete post-war plan regarding Gaza's future governance reveals the ongoing struggle for a unified vision. Abbas's criticism of the United States for its perceived alignment with Israel adds a layer of geopolitical complexity, as he calls for international pressure to halt the conflict and support Gaza's reconstruction.
In navigating the aftermath of the conflict, President Abbas emphasizes the urgent need for resources and international backing, highlighting the extensive damage to Gaza's essential infrastructure. As tensions persist, his calls for accountability from the United States and the broader international community underscore the delicate balance between regional diplomacy and the pressing humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people. The path forward remains uncertain, with the hope that diplomatic efforts and international support will contribute to a more stable and secure future for the region.