New york: President Mahmoud Abbas emphasized that the Palestinian cause remains the greatest test of the international system and its credibility. In a statement delivered by Riyad Mansour, Permanent Observer of the State of Palestine, during the 78th anniversary of the Nakba at the UN Headquarters, Abbas asserted the Palestinian people's right to live in freedom and dignity in their homeland.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency, President Abbas highlighted the enduring impact of the Nakba on Palestinian memory and its annual commemoration as a recognition of the historical injustice faced by Palestinians. He reiterated the right of the Palestinian people to defend their existence and national rights, calling for international support to achieve freedom and independence.
Abbas criticized any belief that peace can be achieved without acknowledging Palestinian rights and the end of Israeli occupation. He underscored the historical and ongoing struggles faced by Palestinians, including forced displacement and attempts to erase their heritage. Abbas called for the recognition of the State of Palestine with East Jerusalem as its capital, emphasizing the need for international actions to rectify past injustices.
The statement also condemned the actions of Israel as an occupying power and the continued aggression against Palestinians. Abbas called for a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and reaffirmed the vision for a sovereign Palestinian state. He expressed gratitude to international supporters of the Palestinian cause and urged global recognition of the injustices faced by Palestinians.
Abbas concluded by honoring the steadfastness of the Palestinian people and their resilience in the face of adversity, reiterating that the struggle will continue until Palestinian rights are fully realized.