Is the UN Chief Urging Irreversible Progress Toward a Two-State Solution?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Antonio Guterres calls for irreversible progress towards a two-state solution.
- The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People highlights ongoing humanitarian crises.
- The recent ceasefire in Gaza offers hope for future peace.
- The UN emphasizes the need for humanitarian aid to be allowed into Gaza.
- Global leaders are urged to support UNRWA and Palestinian rights.
United Nations, Nov 30 (NationPress) UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has once again emphasized the need for irreversible progress toward a two-state solution in his message for the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People.
This year’s International Day of Solidarity, commemorated on November 29, arrives after two years of unprecedented suffering in Gaza and the initiation of a much-needed ceasefire, as highlighted by Guterres.
He pointed out that survivors are grieving the losses of tens of thousands of loved ones; widespread hunger, illness, and trauma prevail; injustice continues in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem; and many humanitarians have lost their lives. The UN chief remarked, "This tragedy has challenged the principles and laws that have guided the international community for decades."
Guterres underscored, "The deaths of countless civilians, the ongoing displacement of entire populations, and the hindrance of humanitarian assistance must never be tolerated under any circumstances."
While the recent ceasefire presents a glimmer of hope, he emphasized the importance of all parties fully respecting it and genuinely working towards solutions that restore and uphold international law. He insisted that lifesaving humanitarian aid must be permitted to enter Gaza at scale and that the international community must continue to support UNRWA, the UN relief agency for Palestinians, as reported by Xinhua.
"I reiterate my call for an end to the unlawful occupation of the Palestinian Territory... and for irreversible progress towards a two-State solution, consistent with international law and relevant UN resolutions, allowing Israel and Palestine to coexist peacefully within secure and recognized borders based on pre-1967 lines, with Jerusalem as the capital of both states," Guterres stated.
"Let us unite in solidarity for their rights to dignity, justice, and self-determination, and collaboratively work towards establishing a peaceful future for all," he added.
The UN General Assembly designated November 29 as the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People in 1977, marking the day in 1947 when the partition resolution for Palestine was adopted.