Palestinian president urges global action over Gaza crisis

A displaced girl is seen in the seaport area of western Gaza City, on May 21, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Wednesday called on the international community to take immediate action in response to the "catastrophic and tragic" situation in the Gaza Strip.

"I appeal to world leaders to take urgent and decisive measures to break the blockade on Gaza, allow the entry of humanitarian and medical aid by land, sea, and air, and immediately and permanently halt this aggression," Abbas said, according to the Palestinian official news agency WAFA.

Abbas also urged for "the release of all detainees and prisoners, a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and the State of Palestine assuming full responsibility," -- steps he described as essential for reconstruction, ending hostilities, and advancing the two-state solution.

He expressed hope that the upcoming UN high-level conference on the two-state solution in June would serve as a turning point, helping implement international resolutions and securing broader recognition and full UN membership for the State of Palestine.

Meanwhile, Mahmoud Basal, spokesperson for Gaza's Civil Defense, told Xinhua on Wednesday that Israeli aircraft launched dozens of raids on Gaza since dawn, killing at least 56 Palestinians across the territory.

Israel launched its new military campaign, dubbed Gideon's Chariots, over the weekend. Officials said the operation aims to dismantle Hamas and secure the release of 58 hostages still held in Gaza. The campaign includes the displacement of most of Gaza's population to further south of the territory and a push to seize control of vast areas in the enclave.

At least 53,655 people have been killed, with 121,950 injured, since the Israeli offensive began 19 months ago, according to the Gaza health authorities on Wednesday.