Exclusive Palestinian official: Sanctions won't stop diplomacy, US inaction enabling Gaza war
'It didn't come as a shock because sanctions by the US are not new,' Aghabekian told Al Arabiya English in an exclusive interview.
The comments came as US State Department officials announced additional restrictions targeting PA figures, citing governance concerns. The move was criticized by Palestinian officials who say the measures are politically motivated.
She said the US is 'more vocal about it' due to the upcoming 80th UN General Assembly in September where many countries, including France and Canada, have pledged to recognize a Palestinian state.
'I don't think it will stop our efforts toward the September conference,' she added.
Aghabekian also voiced strong criticism of the ongoing war on Gaza and the lack of decisive US action to stop it.
'We should always stay optimistic. My utmost priority is to save lives. This war is stoppable. If the US wants to stop a war, it can stop it,' she said.
When asked why the US hasn't acted to bring an end to the war, Aghabekian replied: 'Because that's what Netanyahu wants. He wants to continue the war for personal reasons.'
The minister's comments follow a visit by US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff to a US-backed humanitarian aid site in Gaza operated by the Global Humanitarian Foundation. Aghabekian questioned the timing of the visit and its necessity, given the widely documented destruction.
'It's questionable why the visit is taking place. What is happening in Gaza is crystal clear – mass destruction, starving people, famine. It doesn't need any confirmation,' she said. 'I hope that he takes back the real picture because we are confident he will see the destruction and the famine.'
According to UN figures, nearly 1,400 Palestinians have been killed near aid distribution points in Gaza. While Israeli officials blame Hamas, Aghabekian dismissed that narrative.
'What we hear and see is the deaths – 1,300 killed queuing for food. The pictures and reports from international and Israeli organizations say what is happening is genocide. The situation is clear.'
Aghabekian also rejected recent comments by US President Donald Trump that countries recognizing a Palestinian state are 'rewarding Hamas.'
'No, they are not rewarding Hamas. They are in line with international law,' she said, referring to recognition moves by Canada, the UK, and France.
She reiterated the Palestinian Authority's stance that it is not engaged in direct negotiations with Hamas. 'We are not in direct talks with Hamas,' she said. 'As soon as possible, the hostages should be released and the war should stop.'
On the broader question of international law, Aghabekian said the rules are clear but remain unenforced.
'International law is very clear about what is happening. But we are yet to see the international law take effect. The meeting in NYC is a good platform to get started,' she told Al Arabiya English.
Asked whether a two-state solution is still realistic, she warned that no alternative path will bring lasting peace. 'Any other solution will not grant peace and security, not for Palestine, not for Israel, and not for the region.'
Finally, when asked what message she would send directly to President Trump, Aghabekian said: 'The rights of the Palestinians have been violated for too long. Trump wants to forge peace in the area. The only way to achieve that is to follow international law.'
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