Speaking with Al-Monitor, Aghabekian confirmed that the Palestinian Authority is ready to "work closely" with President Trump for a negotiated settlement. In the wide-ranging interview, she also revealed that Saudi Arabia has resumed partial financial payments to the PA, providing a crucial lifeline after months of suspended aid. The minister confirmed that back payments for the first quarter of the year had been received, with more expected.
A central pillar of this strategy is the French- and Saudi-backed international peace conference, which was postponed but remains a top priority. "That sustained effort… is focused on accomplishing the Palestinian goal through a high-level international conference," Aghabekian stated, adding it is expected to convene "in the coming months." The Palestinian leadership sees the conference as a vital opportunity to revive the long-dormant peace process and implement a two-state solution within a clear timeframe.
While pursuing diplomacy, the PA is also intensifying its legal campaign. Aghabekian, who was instrumental in bringing cases to the ICC, hailed the prosecutor's request for arrest warrants against Israeli leaders as a breakthrough. "For the first time, Israel is being held accountable," she said, highlighting the specific charge of using starvation as a method of warfare. This legal track runs parallel to a campaign for political recognition, which Aghabekian described as a "vital foundation for any credible peace process," not merely a symbolic gesture now supported by 149 nations.
Looking ahead to a post-war scenario, the foreign minister asserted that the Palestinian leadership is prepared to "assume full responsibility for the Gaza Strip" once a permanent ceasefire is achieved. She emphasized strong coordination with Arab partners, particularly Saudi Arabia, reaffirming that regional normalization with Israel remains conditional on Palestinian statehood. "Normalization and true stability cannot be achieved without the realization of a Palestinian state," she stressed, echoing the principles of the Arab Peace Initiative. In a direct appeal, Aghabekian encouraged Israel's peace camp to "amplify their voices" for an end to the occupation, maintaining that a future of security and dignity for both peoples is only possible through the realization of Palestinian rights under international law.