Lowey Statement on United Nations Speech by President Abbas

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Nita M. Lowey, Ranking Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee and the State and Foreign Operations Subcommittee, released the following statement on Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas’ speech today before the United Nations General Assembly:

“Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas’ provocative declarations today at the United Nations threaten to further destabilize the region and risk years of efforts to bring about an independent Palestinian state, existing side-by-side, in peace and security, with Israel.

“I am extremely disappointed by President Abbas’ abandonment of direct negotiations and his turning to the international community to make the tough decisions that he himself won’t make.  Such efforts move the goal of a lasting peace even further away.  A retreat from long-standing agreements with Israel simply will not turn the aspirations of the Palestinian people into a reality.   

“Intransigence should not be rewarded.  Nor should the international community attempt to impose a timeframe or borders on a future Palestinian state.  A resolution to all outstanding issues, however tough, can only be resolved through direct negotiations with Israel. 

“The United States must continue to stand firmly in support of a negotiated settlement that brings about two states for two people.” 

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