Protecting Rafah: Abbas vows to prevent invasion
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas met with Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira at the Presidential Palace in Ramallah to discuss the urgent issue of preventing Israeli occupation forces from taking over the city of Rafah. Abbas emphasized the need for international efforts to stop Israeli aggression, open gates for humanitarian aid, and begin reconstruction in Gaza.
During the meeting, Abbas briefed Vieira on the political situation in Palestine and efforts to end the suffering of the Palestinian people. Interim Prime Minister Mohammed Shtiyye also prioritized a ceasefire, halting attacks on Gaza, and ensuring the entry of medical and humanitarian aid.
At the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki highlighted the dangerous conditions in the West Bank and Jerusalem, similar to those in Gaza. Vieira expressed Brazil’s unwavering support for Palestinian rights and the two-state solution, affirming that the country stands beside the Palestinian people.
Brazil plans to increase aid to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) to assist in ongoing humanitarian efforts. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office approved a military operation plan near Rafah, raising concerns about potential escalation in the region.
The meeting between Abbas and Vieira underscored the importance of international cooperation and support for Palestinian initiatives to address the humanitarian crisis and promote peace in the region.