Abbas vows to uncover truth about Arafat's assassination

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas vowed during the ninth anniversary of Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat’s death to reveal the truth about Abu Ammar’s [Arafat’s] death, despite all obstacles. During a commemoration ceremony in Ramallah’s Cultural Palace on Sunday, Abbas said that the Palestinian Authority is determined to reveal the truth about Arafat’s suspected murder.

Abbas pledged: “On this occasion, I renew our commitment to our national duty and our responsibility as leadership for this great nation to continue our search for the whole truth, whatever the complexities and obstacles. This commitment is a living right. I have full confidence that the investigation committee, which has all the support from us, will reach the truth and announce it to our people.”

The president reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to preserving Christian and Islamic holy places, especially the Al-Aqsa mosque, and protecting the Palestinians in Jerusalem, aiming to strengthen their steadfastness.

The president added that, “the Palestinian Authority works to resolve the Palestinian cause in accordance with UN resolution 194 and the Arab peace initiative. Our priority is the Palestinian wherever he exists. We vow to do everything in our power to protect the Palestinian people and to ease their suffering.”

Mahmoud Abbas, also known as Abu Mazen, demanded that the Israeli government shoulder its responsibilities towards peacemaking and stop putting obstacles and constraints that undermine the peace efforts, especially regarding the illegal settlements.