Abbas: It’s about time for Israel to end its occupation of our land

At a joint press conference with Trump, Abbas calls on Israel to withdraw from the West Bank and recognize an independent Palestinian state based on the 1967 lines.

“It’s about time for Israel to end its occupation of our people and of our land after 50 years; we are the only remaining people in the world that are living under occupation,” he says. “We are aspiring and want to achieve our freedom, dignity and our right to self-determination of our own nation.”

“We also want Israel to recognize the Palestinian state just as the Palestinian people recognize the state of Israel,” he says.

Abbas goes on to reject longstanding Israeli accusations of Palestinian Authority-sponsored incitement against Israel.

“I affirm to you that we are raising our children and grandchildren on a culture of peace, and we are endeavoring to bring about security and peace for our children to live in peace, freedom and security.”