Mahmud Abbas to visit Moscow, discuss Gaza conflict amid ongoing tensions
Russian President Vladimir Putin shakes hands with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas during their meeting in Sochi, Russia November 23, 2021. (Reuters Photo)
Amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine, there is growing anticipation for an important meeting between Palestinian and Russian leaders.
Russia’s RIA news agency reports that Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas will visit Moscow from August 12-14. In an interview with RIA, Abbas expressed his strong disapproval of Israel’s assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. He characterized the act as cowardly, suggesting that its purpose was to perpetuate and escalate the conflict in Gaza. He explained how the assassination would have a detrimental effect on the ongoing negotiations and the withdrawal of Israeli soldiers from Gaza.
During his upcoming visit, Abbas will discuss this matter with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The speaker emphasized the significance of recognized Palestinian authorities governing Gaza and expressed opposition to Israel’s proposed temporary control of the area. Abbas expressed his belief that the PLO and legitimate Palestinian government should govern Gaza. He also strongly opposed Israel’s interim solutions.
Reports indicate that Haniyeh, who had been prominent in Hamas’ international diplomacy during the recent conflict, was allegedly assassinated in Tehran by Israel last week. Russia strongly criticized the assassination and called on all parties involved to exercise caution in order to prevent any further escalation in the Middle East. Russia has expressed its disapproval of Western countries’ disregard for the importance of establishing a sovereign Palestinian state based on the borders of 1967.
During his interview, Abbas emphasized ongoing consultations with Putin and other world leaders, intending to address the peace process and regional developments. As previously announced, Abbas will travel to Türkiye on August 14-15 to meet with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Following a meeting in Tehran between a senior Russian official and the Iranian President, Iran has once again expressed its dedication to enhancing strategic ties with Russia.
These meetings highlight the increasing coordination between Palestine and Russia in light of escalating tensions, emphasizing the international aspect of the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
