President Mahmoud Abbas said in a televised speech today addressing the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis that Israel, the occupying power, is responsible for the safety of the Palestinian political detainees in its prisons.
In his speech, aired by official Palestine TV, the President called on the Israeli occupation authorities to release the Palestinian prisoners, and held Israel responsible for their health as thousands of cases of coronavirus have been confirmed in Israel.
Meanwhile, President Abbas said he had ordered the extension of the state of emergency in Palestine by 30 more days to save public health and achieve security and stability in the midst of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
“We are seeking to clamp down on the fatal coronavirus pandemic, and we count on the awareness and commitment of our people to the specific instructions of the government,” the President said.
He called on the Palestinian population of occupied East Jerusalem to ensure their safety and said the leadership will always remain on their side by all possible means.
The President called on the Palestinian workers in Israel who return to their homes in the West Bank to undergo the necessary health tests and quarantine themselves as required by the Ministry of Health and the other competent authorities.
In this regard, he said, “We are working hard with the relevant authorities to coordinate the return of workers and make all necessary logistical and medical procedures necessary for their safety.”
President Abbas also called upon the Palestinians in the diaspora to abide by the health instructions of the competent health authorities in their host countries.
He addressed the Palestinian people at home and abroad, “Our people everywhere, I am fully aware of the difficulties and burdens that we are facing, but preserving your lives and the lives of your children and your families requires the responsibility and sacrifice of everyone. This is our most important goal.”
“I am sure, God willing, that with our will and our joint efforts, we shall overcome this ordeal.”
