President Mahmoud Abbas and Pope Francis discussed this evening the latest developments in Palestine, including Gaza, the West Bank, and Jerusalem.
During the conversation, President Abbas expressed his appreciation for the role and efforts of Pope Francis in supporting peace-building endeavors in the region and around the world.
President Abbas emphasized the vital importance of the Vatican continuing its efforts to secure an immediate ceasefire of the Israeli aggression on Gaza. He stressed the need to spare civilians the horrors of war, especially given the savage Israeli attacks on innocent civilians in Gaza.
The President also stressed the urgency of establishing permanent humanitarian corridors for the delivery of medical and food supplies and the provision of water and electricity into Gaza.
President Abbas condemned the targeting of innocent civilians in their homes, hospitals, and schools, as well as the demolition of buildings with their occupants inside, describing these actions as heinous crimes that must immediately stop.
He underscored the imperative of putting an end to settler terrorism against the Palestinian people in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
President Abbas also reiterated the firm rejection of the forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza, the West Bank, or Jerusalem. He also emphasized the importance of implementing a political solution based on international legitimacy to achieve freedom, independence, and sovereignty for the Palestinian people.
Pope Francis, in response, emphasized the importance of achieving peace and ending the war in this region and around the world, as well as the urgent need to provide humanitarian assistance to all in a timely manner.
He expressed deep sadness for the civilian casualties and assured that he would stay in touch with President Abbas in the coming period for further consultations and assistance.
