


Abbas Urges Hamas to Free Hostages Amid Ongoing Gaza Conflict
Palestinian President Abbas demands Hamas release hostages to end violence and underscores cooperation with the Palestinian Authority as critical for Palestinian interests.
Overview
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas called on Hamas to release all hostages, warning their continued captivity justifies Israeli military actions. He insisted Hamas jeopardizes Palestinian interests and stressed the need for its disarmament for a peaceful transition of control back to the Palestinian Authority. Abbas’s plea coincides with Israel's renewed military operations in Gaza, causing significant casualties and an exacerbating humanitarian crisis, with over 51,000 dead since the conflict reignited. The situation is compounded by international calls for restoring humanitarian aid, as negotiations for a ceasefire remain stalled amidst political pressures on Abbas to name a successor.
Content generated by AI—learn more or report issue.

Get both sides in 5 minutes with our daily newsletter.
Analysis
- Abbas calls for Hamas to release hostages and relinquish control of Gaza to the Palestinian Authority, stressing that their continued captivity excuses Israeli military actions against Palestinians.
- Abbas's remarks reflect a decisive shift towards holding Hamas accountable while simultaneously positioning the PA as a viable alternative in the post-war landscape of Gaza.
- Abbas continues to emphasize the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, urging international intervention and increased aid amidst the ongoing conflict.
Articles (9)









FAQ
President Abbas is urging Hamas to release the hostages because their captivity is seen as a pretext for Israeli military actions, which Abbas believes exacerbates the situation in Gaza and harms Palestinian interests.
If Hamas does not release the hostages, it could continue to justify Israeli military operations in Gaza, leading to further violence and humanitarian crises.
Abbas's broader goal is to have Hamas release the hostages, disarm, and eventually cede control of Gaza to the Palestinian Authority, which he believes would lead to a more peaceful and stable situation.
The ongoing conflict complicates international aid efforts and ceasefire negotiations, with significant pressure on leaders like Abbas for political action and succession planning.
History
- 2M3 articles