The danger is no longer limited to undermining the two-state solution and preventing the establishment of a Palestinian state. It now threatens the very life and existence of the Palestinian people in their homeland, Abbas says - he was not present in New York.
The president had been denied entry to the United States for the second year in a row. The US government justified the visa ban on Palestinian politicians' "failure to implement reforms" and their engagement in "ongoing activities that undermine the path to peace."
"We oppose these punishments, and we oppose the accusations and what they are based on," Abbas said about not being granted a visa to the United States.
Later on Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to speak at the General Assembly.
