Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has expressed readiness to work with global leaders on a French-backed peace plan for Israel and Palestine. Speaking via video at the UN General Assembly, Abbas rejected a governing role for Hamas in Gaza and called for its disarmament. He urged nations to recognize a Palestinian state and for the UN to grant it full membership. Abbas condemned Israel's Gaza offensive as a humanitarian tragedy but also denounced Hamas's October 7th attack. The proposed French plan includes simultaneous hostage release and a ceasefire, followed by a transitional administration led by the Palestinian Authority, excluding Hamas.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.