Abbas calls for complete ceasefire in Gaza

RAMALLAH -- Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Tuesday called for a "complete ceasefire" in the Gaza Strip and the opening of permanent corridors for the delivery of humanitarian aid to people in the coastal enclave.

Abbas made the remarks during his meeting with visiting French President Emmanuel Macron at the presidential headquarters in Ramallah, the official Palestinian news agency WAFA reported.

Abbas condemned the killing of civilians on both sides and called for the release of civilians, prisoners, and detainees on both sides.

Abbas also rejected the displacement of Palestinians from their homes and lands, whether they are in Gaza, the West Bank, or Jerusalem.

Macron stressed the importance of protecting civilians in Gaza, saying that he seeks to free hostages held by Hamas, including nine French nationals.

Hamas militants launched a surprise attack on Israel on Oct. 7, firing thousands of rockets and infiltrating Israeli territory, where they seized a large number of hostages. The group previously stated that there were 200 to 250 captives held in Gaza. To respond, Israel launched massive airstrikes and punitive measures, including a siege on the enclave with supplies of water, electricity, fuel, and other necessities being cut off.

The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict has so far killed nearly 5,800 Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and more than 1,400 people in Israel.