Abbas Urges UN to Stop ‘Another Nakba,’ Warns Israel’s Policies Threaten Palestinian Existence

NEW YORK — Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas addressed the UN General Assembly on 24 September 2026, asserting that Israel’s policies threaten the very existence of Palestinians and warning of a potential “another Nakba.” The speech came amid renewed tensions in the West Bank and Gaza, following a series of settlement approvals and a tightening of the Gaza blockade.

Abbas warns of ‘another Nakba’ at UN

In a 12‑minute address, Abbas called on the international community to intervene before the situation escalated further. He said that the continued expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank and the blockade of Gaza were “systemic violations” that could lead to the displacement of millions of Palestinians. The president also highlighted the lack of progress in the peace process and the failure of previous agreements to protect Palestinian rights.

Abbas’s remarks followed a report by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs that cited a 30‑percent rise in Israeli settlement construction permits issued in 2025. He also referenced the UN’s 2024 resolution on the right to self‑determination for the Palestinian people, which had not been implemented. The president urged the General Assembly to adopt a binding resolution to halt settlement activity and to enforce the blockade’s humanitarian provisions.

Context of the UN Speech

The speech was delivered during the 81st session of the General Assembly, a forum where member states discuss global issues. Abbas’s statement was part of a broader Palestinian delegation that also included the Palestinian National Council and representatives of the Palestinian diaspora. The delegation had previously presented a report on the humanitarian situation in Gaza, citing shortages of medical supplies and electricity outages that had persisted for months.

Israel’s Foreign Ministry issued a brief statement after the address, noting that it would “continue to defend its security interests” and that it had “no intention of abandoning its right to self‑determination.” The ministry also said it would “continue to engage in dialogue with the Palestinian Authority” to resolve outstanding issues.

Reactions from International Bodies

The United Nations Secretary‑General, António Guterres, responded to Abbas’s speech by reaffirming the UN’s commitment to a two‑state solution. Guterres said that the UN would “continue to monitor the situation closely” and that it would “support efforts to achieve a durable peace.” The statement was issued through the UN’s official channels and was later shared by the UN News Service.

European Union officials also weighed in, with the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell, stating that the EU would “continue to support a negotiated settlement” and that it would “examine the implications of the latest developments.” Borrell’s comments were released in a joint press briefing with the EU’s delegation to the UN.

Historical Reference to Nakba

Abbas’s reference to the “Nakba” — the 1948 displacement of Palestinians — was a stark reminder of the long‑standing grievances that underpin the conflict. He said that the current trajectory could lead to a repeat of that historical event, a claim that has been echoed by other Palestinian leaders in recent years. The term “Nakba” has been used in previous UN speeches, most notably by former UN Secretary‑General Kofi Annan in 2005, who called for a “just and lasting solution.”

Implications for the Peace Process

Abbas’s speech comes at a time when the Israeli government has announced new settlement projects in the Jordan Valley, a move that has drawn criticism from the international community. The Palestinian Authority has also been pushing for a cease‑fire in Gaza, citing the humanitarian toll of ongoing hostilities. The UN’s response to these developments will be closely watched by both sides, as well as by international actors seeking to mediate the conflict.