John Kerry Rips Palestinian Leader for 'Ugly, Unacceptable' Remarks

Former Secretary of State John Kerry blasted Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas over alleged anti-Semitic comments.

Abbas had suggested the "social function" of Jews in the banking sector had led to past massacres. His comments had come in an address to the Palestinian National Council on Monday night.

Kerry took to Twitter and said: "These comments are wrong, ugly, and unacceptable — anywhere from anyone — but particularly from anyone who says he wants to be a peacemaker. No excuses for anti-Semitism: words to be condemned, not explained away."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. officials also condemned Abbas' remarks.

• Abbas Warns of Unspecified 'Tough Steps' Against Israel, US
• Palestinians Vote on Aging Leadership as Abbas Tightens Grip