Guterres warns against undermining the two-state solution and calls for a halt to settlement activity
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres reiterated his firm stance against all Israeli actions and practices that undermine the prospects for a two-state solution, which he considers the cornerstone of peace in the Middle East. Guterres's remarks highlighted the growing challenges facing the Palestinian cause, expressing deep concern over continued settlement expansion, demolitions, forced displacement, and escalating settler violence throughout the occupied West Bank.
Risks of undermining regional peace and stability
In his remarks, the Secretary-General stressed that these practices not only violate international law but also place physical and geographical obstacles to the establishment of a contiguous and viable Palestinian state. Guterres emphasized the need for an immediate end to these violations, noting that the only sustainable solution to the conflict lies in creating the necessary political and security conditions for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, encompassing the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with international law.
Historical context and the importance of the two-state solution
Guterres' warning comes at a critical time for the region, as the two-state solution has been the internationally agreed-upon formula for decades to end the Arab-Israeli conflict. This solution is based on UN Security Council and General Assembly resolutions that affirm the Palestinian people's right to self-determination. Observers believe that the continued policy of land confiscation and the imposition of new realities on the ground threaten to completely undermine this option, potentially plunging the region into an endless cycle of violence and instability—a scenario the Secretary-General has repeatedly warned against.
Gaza and Security Council resolutions
In a related context, and in response to questions about international political initiatives and proposed peace agreements, Guterres stressed the need to adhere to the relevant Security Council resolutions concerning the ceasefire in Gaza. He emphasized the importance of a serious transition to the actual implementation phases, including a comprehensive cessation of military operations and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces, as indispensable preliminary steps for reunifying the two parts of the Palestinian territories (the West Bank and Gaza) under a single national authority, thus paving the way for the realization of the two-state solution.
The rule of law versus the logic of force
Guterres concluded his remarks at the New Year's press conference with a stark warning about the erosion of the international order. He cautioned against the danger of the "logic of force" replacing the "rule of law," noting the alarming decline in respect for international conventions and the ongoing assault on multilateral institutions. These statements constitute a clear call for the international community to uphold its responsibilities in protecting the rules-based global order and ensuring that those who violate international law are held accountable, in order to safeguard international peace and security.
