Abbas Drops Key Palestinian Demands in UN Speech, Contrasting Netanyahu's Stance

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas delivered a recorded speech at the UN General Assembly that notably omitted previously central demands, such as the 1967 borders as the basis for a Palestinian state and the right of return, which were relegated to the end of his address. This marks a significant shift from his consistent rhetoric, suggesting a potential new Palestinian approach possibly influenced by Arab states and in anticipation of Israeli elections. Abbas also expressed regret over past Palestinian inflexibility in negotiations with Israel, indicating a willingness to reconsider previous stances.

In contrast, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's address to the UN was characterized as a defense of Israel, portraying it as a democratic and moral entity protecting Western values. The author criticizes this portrayal, suggesting Netanyahu is building a "Sparta" while describing an "Athens" that no longer exists, and warns that his confrontational approach risks alienating international allies and jeopardizing the US veto, citing the 2016 Security Council resolution against settlements as a precedent.

Abbas's speech also signaled a departure on the status of East Jerusalem, referring to it without the usual descriptor "our eternal capital" and only mentioning it as a potential capital in the concluding remarks. The right of return was also downplayed, mentioned only once as "Resolution 194." Furthermore, Abbas advocated for a "demilitarized state living in security and peace alongside the State of Israel," directly countering fears of a rearmed PLO.

The article also touches on the diminishing relevance of refugee camps and UNRWA, with Abbas agreeing to disarm camps in Lebanon. He also called for sanctions against settlers and international protection from them, distinguishing between the Israeli government and Israel itself. He supported plans for Gaza, provided they are linked to a solution for the West Bank and East Jerusalem, and demanded the release of $6 billion in frozen funds, though his claims of reform were met with skepticism, particularly regarding changes to school curricula.

Ultimately, the author posits that while Netanyahu alienates the international community, Abbas speaks a language the world wants to hear. The article concludes by questioning whether Abbas's speech signals a genuine shift or is primarily aimed at donors seeking reform, suggesting that the upcoming Israeli elections will reveal the true direction of Palestinian policy and the PA's relevance.