Palestinian envoy in Athens urges Greece to recognize the state of Palestine

Speaking to the Greek news outlet in.gr, Dorchom emphasized that the international community must not turn its back on the Palestinian cause. He noted that Palestinians remain cautious about the ceasefire, recalling that many previous ceasefires and United Nations resolutions have been violated.

Highlighting the heavy civilian toll in Gaza, the ambassador stated, “We have more than 67,000 martyrs, including over 22,000 children.” He drew attention to the worsening humanitarian situation, noting severe shortages of electricity, water, food, and shelter, which he said are “darkening the future of children” in the region.

Dorchom also criticized the restrictions imposed by Israel on the entry of essential goods due to border controls, recalling that since 2006 even items such as chocolate and soap have been banned. He lamented that Gaza, once known for its trade centers, seafood restaurants, and social life, has now been largely reduced to ruins due to bombings and destruction.

“The moment the occupation ends, Gaza can be rebuilt,” Dorchom said, stressing that the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the West Bank is the first condition for this to happen.

The ambassador reaffirmed Palestinians’ belief in the two-state solution, citing UN resolutions and noting that international recognition would create legal pressure on Israel and help preserve prospects for peace.

Calling on Greece to recognize the State of Palestine, Dorchom urged that Gaza and the West Bank be treated as a single political entity.

He described Hamas as a political actor that must lay down its arms if it wishes to participate in the political process. Dorchom concluded by stating that the Palestinian Authority seeks a demilitarized and peaceful Palestine, while warning that continued Israeli settlement expansion poses a serious threat to the two-state solution.