Palestinian Leader Abbas Addresses UN Via Video, Calls for Gaza Peace, States Palestinians Will Not Leave Homeland

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas addressed the United Nations General Assembly virtually after the U.S. denied him a visa, emphasizing Palestinians' determination to remain on their land and calling for recognition of a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. Abbas condemned Israel's actions in Gaza as war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity, while rejecting Hamas' role in governance and expressing readiness for the Palestinian Authority to assume full control of Gaza. He thanked numerous countries for recognizing Palestine and urged others to support Palestine's full UN membership. Abbas highlighted the widespread global protests supporting Palestinian rights and stressed that solidarity with Palestine should not be conflated with antisemitism. He also called for the release of hostages held by Israel and cooperation with international actors, including the U.S., France, and Saudi Arabia, to pursue peace. Abbas' speech underscored a vision for peace alongside Israel and a commitment to rebuilding despite ongoing conflict and displacement.