Gaza: Addressing a high-level conference focused on the peaceful resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the urgent need for action and the dire consequences of continued delay.
According to United Nations, Mr. Guterres pointed out the longstanding nature of Middle East diplomacy, noting that it often consists more of process than actual progress toward peace. He highlighted how words and declarations have historically done little to change the situation on the ground, where destruction and annexation continue unabated. Guterres raised critical questions about the potential future of a one-State reality where Palestinians face perpetual occupation and inequality, stating that such an outcome is unacceptable and does not constitute peace or justice.
In earlier remarks, Mr. Guterres had already flagged the conflict as being at a breaking point, underscoring its persistence over generations despite numerous diplomatic efforts and resolutions. He asserted that resolving the conflict is not impossible but requires political will and courageous leadership. Guterres urged Member States to move beyond rhetoric and use the conference as a turning point towards ending the occupation and achieving a viable two-State solution, which he described as essential for peace across the Middle East.
The three-day conference, co-organized by France and Saudi Arabia, includes plenary discussions and thematic roundtables on various issues such as security arrangements, humanitarian response, and economic viability. It aims to bring together Member States, observers, and regional stakeholders to find actionable solutions.
In his opening address, Mr. Guterres stressed the need for immediate action, warning that trust is eroding, institutions are weakening, and hopes are diminishing with each passing day. He laid out specific steps required: ending violence, annexation, and settlement activity; rejecting forced displacement; ensuring accountability for violations of international law; and recommitting to a credible political dialogue based on equal rights and dignity for both peoples.
Turning to the situation in Gaza, Guterres condemned the 7 October 2023 attacks by Hamas on Israel but noted that the response has resulted in unprecedented destruction. He described Gaza as being in a state of cascading catastrophes, with tens of thousands dead and widespread displacement. He called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the unconditional release of hostages, and unrestricted humanitarian access, emphasizing that these are foundational for peace rather than preconditions.
In closing, the Secretary-General urged all parties to choose peace as a duty rather than an aspiration, stressing that the conflict cannot be managed but must be resolved. He called for decisive action to create the conditions for peace and warned against waiting for suffering to become unbearable before taking action.
The Assembly President echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the conflict cannot be resolved through permanent war or endless occupation. He called for immediate action and highlighted the recent demands for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and full humanitarian access. The President also noted the growing global recognition of Palestinian statehood, citing France's decision to extend formal recognition.
Concluding the conference, Mr. Yang emphasized the need for concrete and action-oriented steps towards achieving a two-State solution, one that upholds international law and ensures a peaceful, prosperous, and equitable future for all in the Middle East.