Pressure Mounts as Palestinian President Calls on US to Stop Israeli Attack on Rafah

Riyadh: During a special meeting of the World Economic Forum in Riyadh, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas made a heartfelt plea to the United States to intervene and prevent an imminent attack on the city of Rafah by Israel. Abbas expressed his concerns that such an assault would lead to a catastrophic humanitarian crisis for the Palestinian population gathered there.

Abbas highlighted that the city of Rafah is currently hosting a significant number of Palestinians who have sought shelter there after fleeing Israeli bombardment in other parts of the Gaza Strip. The president emphasized that only a "small strike" on Rafah would force the entire Palestinian population to flee, leading to what he described as the "biggest catastrophe in the Palestinian people's history."

The long-threatened plan by Israel to attack Rafah has drawn intense opposition from its allies, including the United States. Israel's allies, including the US and foreign ministers from the G7 countries, have expressed concerns over the potential for thousands of civilian casualties and disruptions to aid deliveries if a full-scale military operation were to take place in Rafah.

President Abbas called on the United States, as a key partner and mediator in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, to utilize its influence to prevent the attack on Rafah. He emphasized that the US has the power to prevent Israel from committing this crime and urged the country to step in and protect the Palestinian population.

The escalating tension and mounting pressure from international leaders further highlight the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The World Economic Forum's special meeting continues to provide a platform for robust dialogue among global leaders, seeking pathways towards cooperation, peace-building, and the realization of a sustainable and equitable future for all.