Abbas hails Mecca agreement as basis for regional stability, thanks Türkiye

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Wednesday hailed the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement as a vital framework that could serve as a foundation for regional stability and security. Speaking at a joint press conference with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in the Turkish capital, Abbas emphasised the agreement's significance for the broader Muslim world. "This agreement is very important. I hope it will be a starting point for ensuring stability and security in the region and defending the interests of the Muslim Ummah," he stated. Abbas also described his talks with Erdogan as "very important and productive," covering both regional developments and bilateral ties, with both leaders agreeing to deepen their ongoing dialogue.

Just peace requires end to occupation

The Palestinian leader reiterated that a just and lasting peace can only be achieved through the termination of Israel's occupation and the creation of an independent Palestinian state, with occupied East Jerusalem as its capital. He underscored the importance of pursuing this objective within the parameters of international law and the Arab Peace Initiative. Abbas also expressed gratitude for Türkiye's steadfast support, saying Palestinians count on Ankara's continued backing until they attain full independence and freedom. He noted that while a ceasefire in Gaza had been brokered through the joint efforts of Türkiye, Egypt, Qatar and the United States, humanitarian aid deliveries have yet to reach the enclave.

Gaza integral to Palestinian statehood

Abbas firmly rejected any notion of a Palestinian state without Gaza, calling for the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2803 and the swift restoration of legitimate Palestinian sovereignty over the coastal territory. "There can be no state in Gaza, and there can be no state without Gaza," he declared. He also stressed the need to establish robust political institutions and secure financial independence for a viable Palestinian state, noting that Israel has withheld approximately $6.5 billion in Palestinian funds. The discussions with Erdogan also addressed escalating Israeli tensions in the West Bank and Jerusalem, as well as what Abbas described as "terrorism by occupiers" operating under Israeli military protection, with attacks targeting both Muslim and Christian holy sites.

Unity, elections and gratitude toward Türkiye

Abbas reaffirmed Palestinian national unity, stating: "We are one state and will remain one state, united under one legislature and one authority." He voiced strong commitment to the reform agenda and the political programme of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), while highlighting the importance of upcoming parliamentary and presidential elections scheduled for November 28. He concluded by thanking President Erdogan and "brotherly Türkiye" for their humanitarian aid to Gaza, support for Palestinian students, and medical care for the wounded, underscoring Ankara's pivotal role in championing Palestinian rights on the international stage.