New York: Addressing a high-level conference centered on the peaceful resolution of the Israel-Palestine conflict and the implementation of a two-State solution, Mr. Guterres delivered a crucial message emphasizing the urgency of immediate action and the dire consequences of delay.
According to EMM, Mr. Guterres highlighted that Middle East diplomacy has historically been more about process rather than achieving peace. He noted that while words, declarations, and speeches may seem repetitive to those directly affected, the realities of destruction and annexation continue unabated. He posed critical questions regarding the potential alternative, questioning the viability of a one-State reality where Palestinians face unequal rights and perpetual occupation, ultimately dismissing such a scenario as neither peaceful nor just.
In earlier remarks, Mr. Guterres acknowledged that the conflict has reached a breaking point, defying hopes, diplomacy, and international law for generations. Despite this, he asserted that resolution is possible, contingent on political will and courageous leadership. He called for Member States to transcend rhetoric and utilize the conference as a pivotal moment to end the occupation and achieve a viable two-State solution, which he deemed essential for broader Middle Eastern peace.
The three-day conference, organized by France and Saudi Arabia under the mandate of the General Assembly, gathers Member States, observers, and regional stakeholders. It comprises plenary discussions and thematic roundtables addressing issues from security to economic viability.
In his opening address, the Secretary-General stressed the urgency of action, citing the deterioration of trust and institutions as well as the dashing of hopes with each passing day. He outlined necessary steps, including an immediate cessation of violence, annexation, and settlement activities, the rejection of forced displacement, accountability for international law violations, and a recommitment to credible political dialogue centered on equal rights and dignity.
Turning attention to the situation in Gaza, Mr. Guterres condemned the Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, while acknowledging the unprecedented destruction that followed. He described Gaza as descending into a cascade of catastrophes, with tens of thousands dead and widespread displacement. He called for an immediate, permanent ceasefire, the unconditional release of hostages, and unrestricted humanitarian access, emphasizing these as foundations for peace.
Concluding his remarks, the Secretary-General urged all parties to view peace not merely as an aspiration but as an imperative duty. He asserted that the conflict requires resolution rather than management, and that proactive efforts are necessary before suffering becomes unbearable.
UN General Assembly President Philémon Yang echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the ongoing Gaza war and broader crisis underscore the need for decisive change. He reiterated that the conflict cannot be resolved through perpetual war or occupation and called for immediate action to realize the two-State solution, upholding international law and achieving justice for both Palestinians and Israelis.
The conference aims to identify concrete, actionable steps for the international community to support the realization of a peaceful and equitable future for the Middle East.