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Apr 23rd, 2025, 12:35 PM ET·Politics

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.


Last Update: 3:28 PM ET

Summary

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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.

Sources (9)

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  • The Guardian
  • CNN
  • Abbas condemns Hamas for exacerbating the conflict and providing justifications for Israeli actions, labeling the group's leadership as ineffective and damaging to the Palestinian cause, and referring to them as 'sons of dogs' in a recent outburst.
  • He emphasizes the urgency for Palestinian unity while condemning Hamas's actions that worsen the humanitarian plight of Gazans and delay resolutions to the ongoing violence.
  • Abbas's criticism of Hamas indicates a growing frustration among Palestinians with their governance, especially as protests against Hamas gain momentum in Gaza.
Eleven killed in Gaza school shelter as Israel continues bombing campaign
The GuardianThe Guardian·1M·
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"…Israel has renewed its aerial and ground campaign since the collapse of a two-month-old ceasefire and hostage and prisoner release swap in mid-March."

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