Abbas Urges Two-State Solution in UN Address
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas addressed the UN General Assembly on Thursday. He gave a prerecorded video speech from his office in Ramallah.
The United States had denied Abbas a visa to attend in person. This marked the second year in a row for such denials.
The UN allowed Abbas to speak by video instead. Abbas has led the Palestinian Authority since 2005.
He urged nations to support a two-state solution. He said Palestinians want a democratic state that coexists with Israel.
Abbas criticized the United States and Israel. He called for Palestinian self-determination.
Abbas said Israeli policies now threaten Palestinians' "very life and existence." He said this goes beyond risking a two-state solution. Abbas said Palestinians face one of history's most dangerous times.
Key Terms 4
- Ramallah A city in the West Bank where Palestinian leaders are based.
- Palestinian Authority The governing body for Palestinians in parts of the West Bank.
- UN General Assembly A yearly meeting where world leaders speak at the United Nations.
- two-state solution A plan for separate Israeli and Palestinian states existing side by side.