Palestinian President Warns of Existential Threat, “Another Nakba,” Amid Israeli Policies

Palestinian President Warns of Existential Threat, “Another Nakba,” Amid Israeli Policies

By Paul V. Young – TheNATIONWEEK.com | September 25, 2026

BRISBANE, Australia – In a powerful and urgent address, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas issued a stark warning to the international community, declaring that current Israeli policies pose an existential threat to the Palestinian people. He asserted that these actions go beyond undermining a two-state solution, now imperiling “the very life and existence of Palestinians on their homeland,” and called for immediate intervention to prevent “another Nakba,” a reference to the 1948 displacement of Palestinians.

Speaking via a pre-recorded video after the United States denied visas to the Palestinian delegation for the second consecutive year, Abbas condemned the visa denial as unlawful and a breach of host country obligations, urging the U.S. administration to return to “dialogue and mutual respect.”

Abbas painted a harrowing picture of escalating crises, describing Gaza as enduring “killing, destruction, starvation, attempted forced displacement, and a war of genocide.” Simultaneously, he highlighted accelerated settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank, the isolation of East Jerusalem, and intensifying settler violence under occupation. He detailed ongoing crimes, including land theft, home demolitions, roadblocks, and incursions, asserting that every foundation of life and the future of entire generations in Palestinian territories has been targeted.

“A Malicious Colonial Plan”

The Palestinian leader unequivocally stated that events in Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem are “not separate events,” but rather “part of a malicious colonial plan” designed to render Palestinian life untenable and force their departure. He directly challenged the international community, asking, “For how long will some states continue to remain silent about Israel or supply it with the weapons it uses against our people?”

Abbas recounted his acceptance of President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan and Security Council Resolution 2803, which endorsed it, expressing dismay at their lack of tangible implementation. With a transitional period set to conclude in 2027, he pressed for the immediate implementation of the second phase, aiming for the reunification of Gaza and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, under “one state, one government, one law, and a single legitimate authority over arms.”

He specifically cautioned against the Israeli E1 Settlement Plan, warning it would sever East Jerusalem from the remainder of Palestine. He demanded adherence to Security Council Resolution 2334, which calls for a halt to settlement activity. Furthermore, Abbas advocated for sustained support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), stressing its indispensability while the refugee question remains unresolved, and called for the release of over $6 billion in Palestinian funds reportedly withheld by Israel.

Commitment to a Democratic State, A Call for Recognition

One year after the General Assembly endorsed the New York Declaration for a two-state solution, Abbas affirmed, “We have honored our commitments,” citing reforms in public finance, social protection, and school curricula in collaboration with UNESCO. He announced legislative elections on November 28, to be followed by the renewal of the Palestinian National Council and presidential elections.

“We want a democratic Palestinian state that respects the rule of law and human rights – an unarmed state living in security and peace alongside the State of Israel,” Abbas declared. He expressed gratitude to the 160 states that have recognized Palestine and urged others to follow suit, calling for full UN membership.

Concluding with a defiant message, Abbas asserted: “We will not leave our homeland. We will not accept displacement. We will not allow anyone to decide our future on our behalf.”

UN General Assembly: Netanyahu Speech Met with Diplomatic Walkouts and Dissent

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to the United Nations General Assembly was met with a notable demonstration of diplomatic discontent. As Netanyahu began his speech, a significant number of delegates and diplomats staged a walkout from the assembly hall.

This immediate departure unfolded amid a mix of audible boos and cheers, reflecting deeply divided international sentiment surrounding the Israeli leader’s presence and policies. The walkouts underscore the ongoing geopolitical tensions and the controversial nature of Israel’s actions on the global stage.

The incident highlights the growing international scrutiny and criticism directed towards Israel, particularly in the context of the Middle East crisis. This public display of disapproval at such a high-profile international forum serves as a powerful indicator of the diplomatic challenges facing Netanyahu’s government.