Mahmoud Abbas Vows to Visit Gaza, Calls for Accountability in Turkey's Parliament

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas announced his intention to visit Gaza and Jerusalem in a speech to Turkey's parliament, protesting Israel's war on Gaza. Abbas accused the United States of prolonging the conflict and called for legal repercussions against Israel. He received a standing ovation for his impassioned address.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas declared on Thursday his decision to visit Gaza and Jerusalem, protesting against Israel's military actions in the region. His declaration came during a speech to Turkey's parliament, emphasizing the need for Israel to withdraw from occupied Palestinian territories to end the ongoing conflict.

Meeting with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara to discuss ceasefire efforts, Abbas's 46-minute address to Turkey's parliament was punctuated with applause. He accused the United States of exacerbating the conflict through its support of Israel and its veto of United Nations Security Council resolutions. Abbas insisted the international community must hold Israel accountable for war crimes.

Abbas announced, "I have decided to head with the Palestinian Authority members to the Gaza Strip...I will exert every effort so we can all be with our people to stop this barbaric aggression even if it costs us our lives." He emphasized his commitment to visiting Jerusalem as well, though he did not specify a timeline.

Turkey's invitation to Abbas followed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's speech to the U.S. Congress, which Abbas criticized as falsehoods. Turkey has condemned Israel's actions and suspended all trade relations, additionally seeking to join South Africa's case at the International Court of Justice accusing Israel of genocide. Erdogan reiterated his support for Hamas and disclosed that Turkey had intended to host Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh, who was assassinated in Tehran.

(With inputs from agencies.)