Abbas Condemns US and Israel at UNGA, Urges Protection of Palestinian Statehood

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas delivered a pointed address to the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday, condemning both the United States and Israel over what he described as unlawful actions and threats to Palestinian self-determination. Due to a visa refusal by the US State Department, Abbas spoke via video link rather than in person.

Abbas characterized Washington’s decision to deny entry to the Palestinian delegation as a failure by the host nation to meet its international obligations. He criticized the US approach as “unlawful and punitive,” swiftly turning his attention to condemn Israel’s military operations in Gaza and the activities of settlers in the occupied West Bank.

Describing the situation as a “malicious colonial scheme,” Abbas warned of a potential “new Nakba” and highlighted the risks posed by attacks on religious sites by radical settlers, which he feared could escalate into a broader religious conflict. He asserted that lasting security cannot be achieved through the occupation of another people or the denial of their legitimate rights.

Despite the tensions, Abbas reiterated his commitment to the two-state solution, calling on the international community to support the establishment of a non-militarized, democratic Palestinian state existing side by side with Israel in peace. He outlined a plan centered on protecting Palestinians from displacement, preserving their land, and rebuilding political institutions, with east Jerusalem designated as the capital.

“No lasting security can be built upon the occupation of another people,” Abbas stated, emphasizing the need to end the Israeli occupation to enable negotiations. He thanked the 160 nations that have recognized Palestinian statehood and urged their inclusion in the United Nations.

Abbas’s address comes amid heightened diplomatic activity at the General Assembly, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also scheduled to speak. Meanwhile, other global issues dominated portions of the agenda, including a high-level meeting on rising sea levels and discussions among AI leaders regarding the concentration of technological power and the dangers of unregulated artificial intelligence.