Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (C) alongside Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas (L) and Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, July 26, 2023. Photo: Reuters/Palestinian Presidents’ Office

i24 News – Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has emphasized that the Palestinian Authority (PA) can only return to power in the Gaza Strip once a “comprehensive political solution” is reached for the Israel-Palestinian conflict.

The statement comes in the midst of Israel’s war against Hamas in Gaza following the October 7 attacks.

Israel’s efforts to weaken and ultimately remove Hamas from power in Gaza have raised significant questions about the future governance of the Palestinian territory. Abbas discussed this issue with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken during a meeting on Sunday.

The Palestinian leader stated, “We will fully assume our responsibilities within the framework of a comprehensive political solution that includes all of the West Bank, including east Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip,” according to Palestinian news agency Wafa.

The meeting between Blinken and Abbas also focused on the urgent need to address extremist violence against Palestinians in the West Bank. As the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza continues to escalate, the West Bank has experienced a surge in violence, making it an immediate concern.

Abbas decried Israel’s actions as “genocide” in the Gaza Strip amid its ongoing war against Hamas militants. He accused Israel of showing no regard for the principles of international law in its actions.

Meanwhile, the United States has taken a stance on the situation, refraining from endorsing a ceasefire and expressing support for Israel’s objective of dismantling Hamas militants.