Abbas: Solution in Syria is Political. We are against Interference in States Affairs

JERUSALEM, (ST)_ Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said yesterday that, “the only solution to the crisis in Syria is political and that the Arab Spring that had swept this nation is an implementation of the new Middle East project.”

The Palestinian “Together” news agency quoted Abbas as saying at a meeting for the PLO Central Committee “we, the PLO is the sole legitimate representative of the Palestinian people, never interfere in Arab affairs, and we said from the beginning that a political solution in Syria is the best.”

Concerning the terrorist groups and what is happening in the countries of the so-called “Arab Spring,” Abbas expressed “rejection of the practices carried out by Daesh terrorist organization and that he is against all the names it claims on behalf of Islam,” stressing that religious symbols should not be compromised, nor insulted.

On the other hand, Abbas said that, “Israel kidnaps peace and seeks escalation of tension in the world, noting that the solution lies in its withdrawal from the Palestinian territories.”

Abbas added that Israel violated all the agreements held with the Palestinian Authority, noting that “the Palestinian people will not surrender, but will not resort to violence,” adding that “returning to negotiations depends on the release of prisoners and halting the settlement policy.”

“Several European countries began to feel the graveness of the Israeli settlements, Abbas said, ” referring to the need of the international community pressure on Israel in this area”.

The meeting addressed issues on the reconstruction of Gaza Strip, Israel’s withholding of Palestinian funds and imposing severe financial sanctions by deducting taxes worth $ 127 million a month because of Palestine joining of the International Criminal Court.

T. Fateh