Ramallah: President Mahmoud Abbas received a delegation from the Palestinian-Israeli Peace Coalition at the presidential headquarters, expressing support for a newly announced ceasefire agreement.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, President Abbas welcomed the announcement by US President Donald Trump regarding the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. The agreement includes the withdrawal of Israeli forces, the entry of humanitarian aid, and provisions for a prisoner exchange. President Abbas acknowledged the efforts of mediators from Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and the United States in achieving this initial phase of the agreement.
The President expressed hope that all parties would adhere to the agreement and continue dialogues aimed at establishing lasting peace, envisioning a future where a Palestinian state exists alongside Israel in accordance with international resolutions. He highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, noting the loss of over 67,000 civilian lives and injuries to approximately 170,000 individuals, primarily children and women. He condemned Israeli actions that contravene international law, including settlement activities and settler violence.
President Abbas criticized the Israeli government's rhetoric against Palestinians and actions undermining the Palestinian National Authority. He asserted that peace and stability can only be achieved through mutual recognition and respect for each other's national rights, emphasizing the Palestinian quest for freedom, dignity, and security.
He also addressed the growing international recognition of the State of Palestine, clarifying that these recognitions are not antagonistic toward Israel but rather steps toward justice and peace. He stressed that recognizing Palestine aligns with the principle of equality and is essential for resolving the conflict and achieving comprehensive peace.
In closing, President Abbas reiterated his welcome to the visiting delegation, highlighting the importance of such meetings in building trust between Palestinians and Israelis. He called on the delegation to advocate for a just peace within Israeli society, hoping this gathering would initiate a new chapter in both political and human relations.