The United Nations has given “unwavering support” to a two-state solution in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with world leaders calling on Israel to commit to establishing a Palestinian state. The “New York Declaration,” adopted by a conference of high-level representatives, sets out a phased plan to end the nearly eight-decade-long conflict and ongoing war in Gaza.
The plan envisions an independent, demilitarized Palestine living alongside Israel, with the nation’s eventual integration into the wider Middle East region. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected the proposal, citing nationalistic and security concerns.
The declaration condemns attacks committed by Hamas against civilians in southern Israel, as well as Israeli attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure in Gaza. It also calls for countries to recognize Palestine as a state, with France and the United Kingdom among the first Western powers to do so.
The conference has established eight working groups to examine and make proposals on topics related to the two-state solution. The plan includes a temporary international stabilization mission to protect Palestinian civilians, support the transfer of security to the Palestinian Authority, and provide security guarantees for Palestine and Israel.
With growing global outrage over Israeli policies in Gaza, the UN conference is seen as an effort to bring international pressure on Israel to reconsider its stance. The “New York Declaration” marks a significant shift in the conflict’s dynamics, with world leaders now calling on Israel to commit to a peaceful resolution.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/un-israel-palestinians-twostate-gaza-declaration-conflict-7373306d09d7efbb634dab53be711586