Mahmoud Abbas Addresses UN General Assembly: Denounces Hamas, Calls for End to Gaza War
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas delivered a video address to the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday, calling for an end to the war in Gaza and denouncing Hamas. His address comes amidst escalating tensions and diplomatic efforts surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Abbas Condemns Hamas and Affirms Commitment to Peace
In his speech, Abbas condemned the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israel, stating that their actions "do not represent the Palestinian people, nor do they represent their just struggle for freedom and independence." He urged Hamas to lay down their weapons and release all hostages. Abbas also reiterated the Palestinian Authority's recognition of Israel's right to exist and emphasized the desire for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
“We reiterate, we do not want an armed state,” said Abbas, highlighting the Palestinian Authority's vision for a future state based on law and order.
Calls for End to Gaza War and Accusations of Genocide
Abbas implored the UN to help end the war in Gaza, which he described as a "war of genocide, destruction, starvation and displacement." He stated that over 65,000 people have died, including approximately 19,000 children, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry. Abbas accused Israel of using starvation as a weapon and called for the unconditional entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza.
“What Israel is carrying out is not merely an aggression,” Abbas said. “It is a war crime and a crime against humanity."
Future Governance of Gaza and Role of the Palestinian Authority
Abbas asserted that Hamas should have no role in governing Gaza after the war concludes. He stated that the Palestinian Authority is "ready to bear full responsibility for governance and security" in the region. Abbas emphasized that Hamas and other factions must hand over their weapons to the Palestinian Authority.
"Hamas will not have a role to play in governance," Abbas insisted. "Hamas and the other factions will have to hand over their weapons."
International Response and Recognition of Palestinian Statehood
Abbas thanked the nations that have recently recognized Palestine as a state, including France, the United Kingdom, and Canada. He urged other countries to follow suit and support full UN membership for Palestine. However, he acknowledged that symbolic recognition alone is insufficient to address the present crisis.
French President Emmanuel Macron has emphasized that the only path to Palestinian statehood and lasting peace requires reform within the Palestinian Authority.
Microsoft Blocks Israeli Military's Access to Surveillance Technology
In related news, Microsoft has announced it disabled a set of its services to an Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD) unit after an article in The Guardian alleged the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) were using Microsoft products to store surveillance of Palestinians. According to Brad Smith, vice chair and president of Microsoft, the company found evidence that supports elements of the reporting. The data, the article claims, included "data files of phone calls obtained through broad or mass surveillance of civilians in Gaza and the West Bank." Microsoft has informed IMOD of its decision to cease and disable specified IMOD subscriptions and their services. Microsoft maintains it doesn't provide technology to facilitate mass surveillance of civilians.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Despite the ongoing hostilities, Abbas reiterated the need for a two-state solution, with Palestine existing alongside Israel. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected the creation of a Palestinian state, further complicating the path towards peace. Negotiations remain challenging, with some suggesting that the Palestinian Authority has not been adequately consulted in ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Ultimately, Abbas expressed hope for the future, stating, "No matter how long the suffering lasts, it will not break our will to live and survive."
