Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas addressed the UN by pre-recorded video after Palestinian delegates were denied US visas, accusing Israel of waging a 'genocidal war' in Gaza and of fragmenting the West Bank through settlement expansion. He warned that Israeli policies now threaten the two-state solution and the very existence of the Palestinian people. Abbas also urged implementation of the US Gaza peace plan and accused the United States of failing in its duties as host.
Abbas Accuses Israel Of 'Genocidal War' In Gaza, Blames US Over Visa Denials
FILE PHOTO - Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas speaks during a press conference in Berlin. (is associated with: «Abbas accuses Israel of waging 'genocidal war' in Gaza») Wolfgang Kumm/dpa
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas delivered a pre-recorded address to the United Nations General Assembly after the Palestinian delegation was denied US visas. In his recorded speech, Abbas warned that Palestinians are confronting "one of the most dangerous phases in their history."
Accusations Against Israel: Abbas accused Israel of waging a "genocidal war" in the Gaza Strip and said the expansion of settlements was "fragmenting" the occupied West Bank. He also warned that settler violence is on the rise. Israel has formally rejected allegations that its actions amount to genocide.
"The lives and very existence of the Palestinian people in their homeland are under threat," Abbas said, urging urgent international attention.
Calls For Action: Abbas urged implementation of the Gaza peace plan unveiled by the United States last year and called for renewed international engagement to protect civilians and preserve prospects for a two-state solution.
Diplomatic Dispute: He accused the United States of breaching its obligations as the UN host country by refusing visas to Palestinian delegates, forcing him to appear via video as he did last year. Abbas heads the Palestinian Authority (PA), which administers parts of the West Bank, and is widely viewed as having limited domestic support.
Context And Outlook: The Gaza Strip has been largely devastated in the conflict between Israel and Hamas. Several side meetings are scheduled during this year's General Assembly to discuss the Middle East conflict, including possible future administration of Gaza. Last year, a number of Western countries recognized a Palestinian state at the UN, but those recognitions have not yet translated into tangible improvements on the ground.
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