Full Breakdown
Abbas Addresses UN: A Call for Palestinian Governance and Condemnation of Israeli Actions
9/26/2025, 5:01:04 AM
Mahmoud Abbas's UN Address: Key Points
In a significant speech delivered via video link to the United Nations General Assembly on September 25, 2025, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas condemned Israel's military actions in Gaza, labeling them a "war of genocide" and a "crime against humanity." He emphasized that the Palestinian Authority (PA) is prepared to assume governance and security responsibilities in Gaza, explicitly stating that Hamas will have no role in any postwar administration. Abbas's address followed the revocation of his visa by the United States, which prevented him from attending in person.
Context of the Speech
Abbas's remarks come amid ongoing hostilities that began after Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 Israeli deaths and the capture of 251 hostages. In retaliation, Israeli military operations have reportedly killed over 65,000 Palestinians in Gaza, according to local health authorities. Abbas highlighted the humanitarian crisis, stating that the Israeli campaign has led to widespread destruction, starvation, and displacement among the Palestinian population.
Abbas's Vision for Postwar Governance
Abbas outlined a nine-point plan for Gaza's future, which includes:
1. An immediate and permanent ceasefire.
2. Unimpeded humanitarian aid access.
3. The release of all hostages and prisoners.
4. Complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
5. The PA taking full responsibility for governance in Gaza.
6. Guarantees for residents' rights to remain on their land.
7. Release of Palestinian clearance revenues withheld by Israel.
8. Support for PA reforms and elections.
9. Collaboration with international partners, including the U.S., to implement a peace plan.
He reiterated that Hamas must disarm and relinquish its weapons to the PA, asserting, "We do not want an armed state."
Criticism and Opposition
Israeli officials, including Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, criticized Abbas's speech, accusing him of failing to combat terrorism and questioning his ability to govern Gaza. Sa’ar remarked that Abbas's claim to govern Gaza is ironic, given that he lost control of the territory to Hamas in 2007. He dismissed Abbas's intentions as mere rhetoric, stating, "Israel will not be deceived once again."
International Reactions
Abbas welcomed recent recognitions of Palestinian statehood from several countries, including France, the UK, and Canada, but stressed that symbolic gestures are insufficient. He called for decisive action from the international community to support Palestinian rights and end the occupation. Abbas's speech received applause from some world leaders, reflecting a mix of support and skepticism regarding the PA's role in future governance.
Conclusion: A Message of Resilience
In closing, Abbas conveyed a message of hope and resilience to the Palestinian people, asserting, "We will not leave our homeland. We will not leave our lands." He emphasized that the struggle for Palestinian rights and statehood would continue, urging the international community to recognize the urgency of the situation and act accordingly. As the conflict persists, the future of Gaza and the broader Palestinian territories remains uncertain, with ongoing debates about governance, security, and the path to peace.
