On Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed his commitment to establishing a “full-fledged Palestinian state,” amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.
During a meeting with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, Putin emphasized the need for a stable and lasting peace in the region, stating, “We believe that…creating a full-fledged Palestinian state is essential.”
Since the outbreak of hostilities on October 7, 2023, following a Hamas attack on Israel, tensions have escalated across the Middle East. The recent killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran—an assassination reportedly linked to Israeli forces—has added further strain to the situation. Israel has not confirmed its involvement in Haniyeh’s death.
Putin expressed his concern over the humanitarian crisis in Palestine, telling Abbas, “We are watching this tragedy with great pain and concern. We are doing everything to support the Palestinian people,” and noted that Russia had sent around 700 tons of aid.
Photo by ALEXEY MAISHEV/POOL/AFP via Getty Images
In response, Abbas criticized the United Nations for its perceived inaction, claiming it has failed to ensure the rights of the Palestinian people due to U.S. pressure.
While Putin has tried to maintain a neutral stance, he has previously pointed fingers at U.S. policies. He remarked that the current crisis highlights the failures of the U.S. approach to the Middle East, particularly neglecting the fundamental interests of Palestinians.
Following Haniyeh’s killing, Moscow condemned the act, with Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov warning of future escalations and calling it an “absolutely unacceptable political assassination.”