"This Madness Must Stop" - Palestinian President, Abbas Urges UN Action to End War in Gaza

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in a fervent address to the United Nations General Assembly implored the international community to take decisive action to halt the ongoing conflict in Gaza. "This madness cannot continue. Stop the war in Gaza," he declared, emphasizing the dire humanitarian crisis that has engulfed the region.

The situation in Gaza has reached catastrophic levels, with over 37,000 Palestinians reported dead and the entire population facing acute insecurity. The relentless Israeli bombardment has displaced 75% of Gaza's residents, leaving more than two million people—half of them children—without access to clean water, food, and essential medical services. The destruction of over 60% of Gaza’s housing and the severe shortages of food and clean water have pushed the population to the brink of famine.

President Abbas condemned Israel's actions as a form of collective punishment and called for immediate international accountability for the atrocities committed. He urged the UN to support a resolution that would enable the Palestinian leadership to enter Gaza, facilitate the cessation of hostilities, and initiate reconstruction efforts.

Abbas also demanded the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, the rejection of buffer zones, and the cessation of forced displacement procedures.

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has been actively involved in providing emergency and life-saving medical care in Gaza's few remaining operational hospitals. Despite their efforts, the healthcare system is overwhelmed, with only 17 out of 36 hospitals partially functional. The IRC has delivered 46 metric tons of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies, but the persistent restrictions on aid flow have exacerbated the crisis.

Abbas highlighted the daily aggression faced by Palestinians and the ongoing settlement expansion supported by the Israeli government. He called for the revocation of Israel's UN membership, arguing that it has consistently failed to fulfill the conditions for UN membership.

"The world bears responsibility for the situation of our people in Gaza and the West Bank," he stated, urging international allies to witness the situation firsthand and contribute to the peace process.

The IRC and its partners are also addressing the mental health needs of Gaza's children, who have experienced profound trauma due to the extensive destruction and displacement. Programs providing psychosocial support, protection, and early childhood development are crucial in mitigating the long-term impact of the crisis.