What it is about
During a high-profile address at the United Nations, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas delivered a vehement denouncement of both Israel and the United States, openly questioning Israel’s legitimacy and condemning American support for the Jewish state.
Why it matters
The speech amplified longstanding tensions and highlighted Abbas’s contentious stance on Israel, reaffirming accusations that his administration supports terrorism and exacerbates antisemitism. The implications of his statements challenge diplomatic efforts for peace and security in the region.
Key statements and accusations
Abbas claimed, “Palestine is our homeland… and if anyone were to leave, it would be the occupying usurpers,” questioning Israel’s existence and targeting the U.S. for providing military aid to Israel. This rhetoric marks another chapter in his long history of inflammatory statements against Israel.
Responses from Israeli officials
Israel’s UN Ambassador, Danny Danon, responded sharply, pointing out that Abbas did not mention Hamas, the group responsible for horrific attacks against Israelis. Danon underscored Abbas’s failure to address the brutality of Hamas, thereby indirectly supporting terrorism.
Abbas’s Historical Context and Current Criticisms
Born in Safed during the British mandate, Abbas fled to Syria during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war. He has often been accused of perpetuating the infamous “pay-for-slay” program, financially supporting terrorists and their families.
Critics, such as Kobi Michael from the Institute for National Security Studies, argue that Abbas’s leadership mirrors the corruption and inefficiency of Yasser Arafat’s PLO, rejecting Israel’s right to exist and failing to educate Palestinians for peace.
Antisemitic and Anti-American discourse
Abbas has also faced criticism for fueling antisemitic conspiracy theories and anti-American sentiments, once labeling the U.S. as “the plague.” Such rhetoric complicates the already fragile geopolitics and further distances any potential peace initiatives.
Legacy of Division
Asaf Romirowsky of Scholars for Peace in the Middle East highlighted that Abbas continues to sustain internal Palestinian division and endorse terrorist actions, solidifying his legacy as one rooted in victimhood and antisemitism rather than constructive dialogue.
Conclusion
The UN speech by Mahmoud Abbas not only reflects ongoing hostility but also underscores the importance of clear, fact-based discourse and responsible leadership in achieving the goal of peace and coexistence in the region.
This story was first published on foxnews.com.