Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas issues a urgent plea to Hamas, urging swift agreement on a Gaza deal to prevent dire consequences, according to Palestinian news agency reports.
Abbas emphasizes the critical need for a prisoner deal to safeguard Palestinian people from potential catastrophe, evoking the historic Nakba of 1948.
The conflict’s origins trace back to an October 7 Hamas attack, resulting in casualties and abductions. Israel cites approximately 100 hostages in Hamas captivity, with Hamas holding remains of around 30 others.
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The internationally recognized Palestinian Authority (PA), seated in Ramallah, remains sidelined in ceasefire talks hosted by Egypt, amidst ongoing Palestinian aspirations for statehood.
The United States, a key funder of the PA, supports Palestinian statehood but calls for leadership reform. Abbas’s plea coincides with evolving ceasefire negotiations and Israeli threats of expanded offensive.
Meanwhile, Egypt-hosted talks continue as Israeli forces conduct a rescue operation in Rafah, resulting in casualties. A ceasefire deal offers hope for relief in Gaza’s fifth-month war.
