The United Nations General Assembly on Thursday, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas asserted that lasting peace in the Middle East remains unattainable until the Palestinian people are granted their full rights. His remarks come at a crucial juncture as the United States appears to be making significant strides in brokering a groundbreaking normalization deal between Israel and Saudi Arabia.
Abbas did not mince words, stating, “Whoever thinks peace in the Middle East is possible before our people achieve their full rights is delusional.” His plea underscores the deep-seated grievances and aspirations of the Palestinian people, who have long sought recognition and self-determination.
The potential Israeli-Saudi normalization, if realized, would have profound implications for the region, as it would formally unite two major U.S. allies who have historically been adversaries. This development comes as the centerpiece of complex negotiations that encompass discussions on various critical issues, including U.S. security guarantees and civilian nuclear assistance sought by Riyadh. Additionally, these talks involve exploring possible concessions from Israel to the Palestinians.
However, it’s worth noting that the Saudi and U.S. calls for the Palestinians to make gains under any prospective deal may prove challenging for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s hard-right government. Netanyahu had a crucial meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden on Wednesday on the sidelines of the annual General Assembly in New York, where the dynamics of the negotiations likely took center stage.
In addition to his call for Palestinian rights, Abbas also urged the United Nations to convene a conference aimed at rekindling Israeli-Palestinian peace talks, which had previously collapsed in 2014. This plea reflects the ongoing commitment to diplomatic efforts as a means to resolve the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The world watches with bated breath as these intricate negotiations unfold, with the hopes of achieving a historic breakthrough towards peace in the turbulent Middle East.
