Palestinian President Abbas Praises Mecca Agreement as Path to Regional Stability

ANKARA - Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has welcomed the recent trilateral defense pact between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye, describing the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement as a potentially transformative step toward regional stability and the protection of the Islamic Ummah's interests .

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas praises the Mecca Agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye, calling it an important step toward regional stability, security, and protecting the interests of the Islamic Ummah.

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Speaking at a joint press conference with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara on August 12, Abbas emphasized the agreement's significance for the broader Muslim world, stating: "This agreement is very important. I hope it will be a starting point for ensuring stability and security in the region and defending the interests of the Muslim Ummah" .

The Palestinian leader described his talks with Erdogan as "very important and productive," covering both regional developments and bilateral ties, with both leaders agreeing to strengthen their ongoing dialogue . He stressed that a just and lasting peace could only be achieved through ending the occupation and establishing an independent Palestinian state with occupied East Jerusalem as its capital, within the framework of international law and the Arab Peace Initiative .

Gaza and Palestinian Unity

Abbas firmly rejected any notion of a Palestinian state without Gaza, calling for the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 2803 and the swift restoration of legitimate Palestinian sovereignty over the coastal territory . "There can be no state in Gaza, and there can be no state without Gaza," he declared .

He emphasized the importance of protecting Muslim and Christian holy sites and achieving Palestinian unity and comprehensive national reconciliation, stating: "We are one state and will remain one state, united under one legislature and one authority" . Abbas reaffirmed his commitment to the reform agenda and the political program of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), while highlighting the importance of upcoming parliamentary and presidential elections scheduled for November 28 .

Gratitude Toward Türkiye

Abbas expressed deep gratitude for Türkiye's steadfast support, saying Palestinians count on Ankara's continued backing until they attain full independence and freedom . He thanked President Erdogan and "brotherly Türkiye" for their humanitarian aid to Gaza, support for Palestinian students, and medical care for the wounded, underscoring Ankara's pivotal role in championing Palestinian rights on the international stage .