What’s happening:
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has stated that the United States is the only nation capable of compelling Israel to cease hostilities. He has voiced his disappointment with the US for not taking action to stop the war between Israel and Hamas. Abbas is advocating for an international peace conference to establish a lasting resolution to the conflict.
Why it matters:
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has seen intermittent flare-ups, despite temporary cease-fire agreements. The involvement of the US could be pivotal in mediating a long-term peace solution. Abbas’ remarks underscore the complex geopolitical dynamics and the significant influence the US holds in the region.
Key comments:
The United States, which fully supports Israel, bears the responsibility of what is happening in the enclave, Abbas expressed. He further emphasized his commitment to peaceful resistance and negotiations based on an international peace conference under international auspices.
The bigger picture:
The peace process has been further complicated by recent hostilities. A temporary cease-fire and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas was short-lived, with fighting resuming in the Gaza Strip. President Biden has pointed to Hamas’ actions as the reason for the breakdown of this deal.
Between the lines:
Abbas criticized the US for not enforcing its stated support for a two-state solution and for allowing Israel to maintain security control in Gaza. He contends that America does not compel Israel to act on its declarations, highlighting a gap between US policy statements and actions on the ground.
What’s next:
Abbas’ call for a peace conference suggests a search for an alternative path to resolution, potentially involving multiple international stakeholders. The outcome of such a conference, and the US’s role in this process, could significantly impact the future of Israeli-Palestinian relations.
This story was first published on foxnews.com.