New York: A world in which a sovereign State of Palestine and Israel co-exist peacefully seems a distant prospect, particularly in light of the 7 October 2023 attacks by Hamas on Israel and the subsequent Israeli bombardment of Gaza. A high-level UN conference opening on 28 July will, nevertheless, serve as the latest UN-backed attempt to find a way to end the conflict.
According to EMM, Bob Rae, Canada's Ambassador to the UN, emphasized that the conference is not a peace conference but rather an opportunity to maintain the debate and explore solutions beyond the current sticking points. He expressed hope that attendees would engage in listening and learning based on the discussions. UN Secretary-General António Guterres also questioned the alternatives to the two-State solution, stressing the international community's duty to keep it alive and create the conditions necessary for its realization.
The Canadian ambassador acknowledged the difficult situation faced by both Israel and Palestine, noting that many Israeli citizens remain hostages of Hamas, following the severe attack on the Jewish population. The ongoing war in Gaza continues to be traumatic for Palestinians and the wider Arab community.
The conference, convened in the Trusteeship Council at UN Headquarters in New York, follows the adoption of a General Assembly Resolution (Resolution ES-10/22) in 2024. A concept note released ahead of the event highlights that international consensus on the two-State solution remains strong, describing it as the only way to fulfill the legitimate aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians in accordance with international law.
Anne-Claire Legendre, advisor to French President Emmanuel Macron, emphasized the importance of maintaining the prospects of a Palestinian State through irreversible steps and concrete measures. She called for a lasting ceasefire, an immediate influx of humanitarian aid, and the release of hostages. Similarly, Manal bint Hassan Radwan, head of the Saudi Arabian negotiating team, stressed the need for a credible political plan addressing the conflict's root causes, offering a path to peace, dignity, and mutual security.
The two-State solution, envisioned as a peaceful coexistence of Jewish and Palestinian populations, has been part of numerous UN Security Council resolutions and peace talks. Since Great Britain relinquished its mandate over Palestine in 1947, the UN has been involved in seeking a just solution. The 1993 Oslo Accord marked a significant step, although subsequent negotiations have been inconclusive. Three decades later, the UN remains committed to supporting the resolution of the conflict in line with UN resolutions, international law, and bilateral agreements, aiming for two states living side by side in peace and security.
