Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas stated on Thursday that Palestinians in Lebanon remain "temporary guests" until their return to their homeland, while emphasizing that Palestinian refugee camps are "under the sovereignty of the Lebanese state and army."

Abbas made these remarks during an event organized by the Hani Fahs Academy for Dialogue and Peace, where he was awarded the "Peacemakers Prize" in recognition of his role in fostering Palestinian-Lebanese reconciliation.

Key Points from President Abbas' Speech:

1. On Palestinian Refugees in Lebanon:

   • "The Palestinian people in Lebanon are temporary guests until their return to their homeland, Palestine."

   • "The Palestinian refugee camps fall under the sovereignty of the Lebanese state and army."

   • He warned that armed groups operating outside state control "weaken Lebanon and harm the Palestinian cause."

2. Strengthening Lebanese-Palestinian Ties:

   • Abbas affirmed that the Palestinian delegation’s visit to Lebanon reflects the deep historical bonds between the two peoples.

   • He reiterated Palestine’s support for Lebanon in fulfilling its international commitments and maintaining its security, stability, and sovereignty over all its territories.

3. Call for International Action:

   • Urged world leaders to break the siege on Palestine using all available means.

   • Demanded immediate humanitarian aid for Gaza and an end to "the war of genocide, destruction, and starvation against the Palestinian people."

   • Stressed the priority of halting Israeli aggression in Gaza and the West Bank, followed by Palestinian governance over Gaza under a unified system with the West Bank and Jerusalem—"one state, one law, and one legitimate authority."

4. On Lebanon-Israel Tensions:

   • Called for an end to Israeli aggression against Lebanon and its people.

   • Insisted on Israel’s complete withdrawal from all occupied Lebanese territories.

5. Political Solution & Reconstruction:

   • Highlighted efforts to mobilize international support for reconstruction and a political process based on international legitimacy.

   • Aimed at ending Israeli occupation and establishing an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, per UN resolutions.

Background:
President Abbas began an official visit to Lebanon on Wednesday to meet senior Lebanese officials and discuss conditions in Palestinian refugee camps.