WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) released the following statement in response to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas’ speech today at the United Nations in New York, NY:

“If the Palestinians wish to establish a sovereign state, they must first recognize Israel as a Jewish state and take part in sincere negotiations with Israel. False accusations and misguided plans at the United Nations are a distraction that will not result in statehood – instead, they impede the peace process. Direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians are not just the best way to achieve a lasting peace, they are the only way.”