In a powerful condemnation that has reverberated across international diplomatic circles, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has accused Israel of conducting a "war of extermination" against the Palestinian people during his meeting with Pope Francis at the Vatican.
A Diplomatic Confrontation in the Holy See
The 88-year-old Palestinian leader delivered his stark assessment during high-level talks aimed at addressing the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza. President Abbas didn't mince words, stating unequivocally that Israel's military campaign represents "genocide" against Palestinians in both Gaza and the wider West Bank.
The meeting came at a critical juncture, with Gaza's health authorities reporting a devastating death toll exceeding 37,000 people since the conflict began following Hamas's October 7th attacks on Israel.
Call for International Action
President Abbas used the Vatican platform to issue an urgent appeal for international intervention, specifically calling for:
- An immediate peace conference involving all relevant parties
- Full recognition of Palestinian statehood by more nations
- Palestinian membership in the United Nations
- Implementation of a political solution to end Israeli occupation
"The time has come for a concrete political solution, not just temporary fixes," Abbas emphasised during the discussions.
The Vatican's Stance
The Holy See has maintained its consistent position, advocating for:
- A two-state solution to the conflict
- International recognition of both Israeli and Palestinian states
- Special status and protection for Jerusalem
Pope Francis has repeatedly called for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian access to Gaza, describing the situation as "beyond war, it's terrorism" in previous statements.
Regional Implications
This diplomatic confrontation occurs against a backdrop of shifting international attitudes. Several European nations, including Spain, Ireland, and Norway, have recently recognised Palestinian statehood, signalling growing impatience with the status quo.
The Vatican itself formalised its recognition of Palestinian statehood in 2015, positioning itself as a significant moral voice in the conflict.
As the death toll continues to rise and diplomatic efforts intensify, President Abbas's stark characterisation of the conflict as a "war of extermination" adds new urgency to international calls for intervention and a sustainable political solution.
