Global Coalition: "Two-State Solution" is the Only Option for Peace in the Middle East
The co-presidents of the Global Coalition for Implementing the Two-State Solution reaffirmed that the two-state solution represents “the only internationally agreed-upon path” to guaranteeing the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and achieving security and peace in the region. This statement was made during a ministerial meeting held on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, attended by the Palestinian Prime Minister, approximately 100 states and international organizations, and the High Representative of the Council for Peace in Gaza.
In the statement issued following the meeting, the co-presidents reiterated that the two-state solution is the sole internationally agreed-upon pathway that secures the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination, ensures lasting security for Israel, and establishes peace throughout the region. This solution enjoys stronger international consensus than at any point in recent years. Although the risks to its realization have increased, the opportunity remains viable.
They expressed deep concern over developments on the ground that undermine the prerequisites for a two-state solution. Settlement expansion, including the “E1” plan, alongside demolition operations, policies of forced displacement and annexation and threats thereof, and unprecedented settler violence, are eroding the unity and geographic connectivity of the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. They called for an immediate halt to these measures, accountability for those responsible for settler violence, and the preservation of the historical and legal status quo at the holy sites in the Noble City of Jerusalem.
The co-presidents reaffirmed their vision: “One Palestine. Two states. A region of peace.” They emphasized that Gaza and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, must constitute a single Palestinian territorial unit, and that the occupation must end.
They affirmed the Palestinian people’s inalienable right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent, sovereign, democratic, geographically connected, and viable state, living side by side with Israel in security and peace, based on the 1967 lines, in accordance with international law and relevant United Nations resolutions. They noted that resolving the Palestinian question is foundational to regional peace and integration, grounded in the Arab Peace Initiative, the New York Declaration, and the Comprehensive Peace Plan.
They stressed that the New York Declaration, the Comprehensive Peace Plan, and United Nations Security Council Resolution 2803 reinforce one another. Gaza cannot have a separate political future, and transitional arrangements must lead to its reunification with the West Bank under the authority of a single legitimate Palestinian government. They expressed support for the Council for Peace, the Office of the High Representative, the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, and the International Stabilization Force in carrying out their respective mandates.
The co-presidents called for consolidating the ceasefire in Gaza, the disarmament of Hamas and all armed groups, and a full Israeli withdrawal, through a credible and verifiable implementation process. They also called for supporting the transitional phase in the security domain, including through the International Stabilization Force and the training of a Palestinian police force whose members are subject to vetting. They urged the rapid, safe, and unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid to all parts of the Gaza Strip, particularly through the United Nations and its agencies, including the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). Early recovery and reconstruction must begin immediately, supported by coordinated and reliable financing.
The co-presidents of the Global Coalition for Implementing the Two-State Solution expressed concern over the financial and institutional pressures facing the Palestinian Authority. Its financial sustainability must be preserved, including through the release of all withheld customs revenues. They supported reform and institutional renewal led by Palestinians, including through elections, and called on all parties to facilitate the upcoming national elections. They also urged donors to provide direct assistance to support the Palestinian Authority.
They rejected terrorism and incitement, affirming that this is a political and regional conflict that is resolvable and must not be portrayed as a religious conflict. Religious leaders and communities can contribute to fostering coexistence, safeguarding human dignity, and supporting peace, while preventing extremists from exploiting religion to justify terrorism, violence, exclusion, or domination.
They reaffirmed their commitment to respecting international law, relevant United Nations resolutions, and the Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice issued on 19 July 2024. The Global Coalition will continue to support the commitments and national measures taken under the New York Declaration.
In closing, the co-presidents of the Coalition addressed messages to Palestinians, Israelis, and the international community, reaffirming their steadfast commitment to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. They emphasized that Gaza will not be separated from the West Bank, and warned that obstructing the two-state solution will not yield lasting security. They called on the international community to act to preserve and realize this solution on the ground before it is too late.
