Abbas and Al-Sharaa Meet in Cairo to Discuss Palestinian Concerns

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa met for their first discussion since the power shift in Syria last December. The meeting, held in Cairo during an emergency Arab summit, addressed Gaza’s reconstruction and opposition to U.S. policies affecting Palestinians. They discussed the ongoing Israeli policies threatening Palestinian territory and emphasized Gaza’s significance.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has met with Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa in Cairo for their first encounter since the shift in power in Syria last December. This meeting occurred on the sidelines of an emergency Arab summit addressing the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip and opposing U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal regarding Palestinian displacement.

During the discussion, both leaders addressed recent developments in the occupied West Bank and reaffirmed that the Gaza Strip remains an integral part of Palestinian territory. President Abbas articulated priorities including maintaining the ceasefire in Gaza, providing essential aid, and ensuring that Israeli forces withdraw from the region.

Both Abbas and Al-Sharaa expressed their opposition to Israeli policies that threaten Palestinian sovereignty, including the expansion of settlements in the West Bank and the forced displacement of Palestinians. They emphasized the urgency of safeguarding their territorial integrity amidst attempts to annex portions of their homeland.

Since the fall of Bashar Assad’s regime, Israel has occupied strategic areas in southern Syria, notably Mount Hermon, disrupting longstanding agreements. In attendance at the meeting were Hussein Al-Sheikh, secretary-general of the Executive Committee of the Palestine Liberation Organization, and Diab Al-Louh, the Palestinian ambassador to Egypt.

In summary, the meeting between President Mahmoud Abbas and President Ahmad Al-Sharaa marks a significant diplomatic engagement following the changes in Syrian governance. The discussions underscored the shared concerns of both leaders regarding Israeli policies and reiterated the importance of Gaza within Palestinian sovereignty. Their commitment to upholding peace and territorial integrity remains vital for the future establishment of a Palestinian state.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com