Abbas laid out his position on the identity of the state:
“The Jewish character of the state is an existing reality that was imposed upon us and was not something we chose. It is the choice of the Jewish majority, not a demand of ours. The Arab parties have been compelled to accept this in practical terms; otherwise, they could potentially be disqualified from running in elections for the Knesset and local authorities.
Our priorities are to focus on strengthening our status and securing our national and civil rights; to play a political role in government rather than settle for parliamentary representation in the opposition alone; to work to advance the interests of our community and prevent harm to it. Our position regarding the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and recognition of a Palestinian state alongside the State of Israel is well known.”