Palestine calls on UN to end war in Gaza
On September 26, Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas called on the United Nations General Assembly to end the war in the Gaza Strip between Israel and the militant group Hamas, stressing that Israel had almost completely destroyed Gaza and the place was no longer suitable for living.
"This madness cannot continue. The whole world must take responsibility for what is happening to our people," he told the 193-member General Assembly.
The United States, Qatar and Egypt have tried unsuccessfully to broker a ceasefire and the release of hostages held by Hamas.
Mr. Abbas called for a comprehensive and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, an end to attacks by Israeli settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, the transfer of humanitarian aid throughout Gaza and the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from the enclave.
“We refuse to establish a buffer zone or take any area from Gaza,” he said. “We will not allow one centimeter of Gaza to be taken away.”
"The State of Palestine must assume its responsibilities in the Gaza Strip and impose its full mandate and jurisdiction over the Gaza Strip, including border checkpoints, especially the Rafah international border," Abbas said.
Mr Abbas has insisted that the Palestinian Authority, which he leads, should control all Palestinian territory and hold elections after the war ends. These would be the first elections in nearly two decades if held.
Israel's ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon criticized the Palestinian leader's speech.
