Abbas Urges Hamas to Free Hostages, Cede Gaza Control

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas issued his strongest condemnation yet of Hamas, publicly calling them 'sons of dogs' and demanding they release all Israeli hostages and relinquish control of Gaza to the Palestinian Authority. Abbas argued that the continued captivity of hostages gives Israel justification to continue its military campaign in Gaza, which he described as a 'war of extermination.' He called for Hamas to disarm, transition into a political party under the laws of a future Palestinian state, and unify Gaza's governance under the PA and the Palestine Liberation Organization. These statements highlight the deep divisions between Fatah and Hamas, as well as mounting international pressure on Abbas to reform the PA and clarify leadership succession for a post-war transition. Abbas also condemned Israel's military actions and warned of a potential 'new Nakba' for Palestinians, while renewed ceasefire negotiations continue with mediation from Egypt and Qatar. The remarks reflect shifting strategies and rhetoric among Palestinian leaders as the humanitarian situation in Gaza worsens and diplomatic efforts intensify.