Palestinian President Abbas Rejects Netanyahu’s Settlement Expansion Plan

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has firmly rejected Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plan to expand settlements in the occupied West Bank, warning that the move would isolate Jerusalem and destroy prospects for a two-state solution.

Speaking virtually at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday, September 25, President Mahmoud Abbas criticized the Israeli government's ongoing settlement expansion. The Palestinian leader was denied a U.S. visa and delivered his address remotely from Ramallah.

Abbas stated that Netanyahu's proposed expansion would split the West Bank into disconnected territories and isolate occupied East Jerusalem from its surroundings, ultimately rendering the two-state solution impossible.

He accused Israel of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity in the Gaza Strip, which has been under blockade for nearly two years.

"This is not just aggression—what Israel is doing is genocide, destruction, and forced displacement," Abbas said. "These are documented crimes and will be recorded as one of the darkest chapters in modern human history."

He also condemned the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas and made it clear that Hamas will have no role in governing Gaza in the future. Abbas called for the transfer of full administrative authority in Gaza to the Palestinian State and demanded international protection for civilians under UN supervision.

Abbas explained that the Israeli plan aims to link the large settlement of Ma’ale Adumim, located east of Jerusalem, with the city itself — a strategic move to permanently alter the demographics and geography of the region.

He also expressed gratitude to countries such as the UK, Canada, Australia, and Portugal, among others, for recognizing the State of Palestine. He thanked all groups and voices advocating for freedom, justice, and the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.