Antonio Guterres, the United Nations Secretary-General, reinforced the UN’s dedication to a two-state solution as the way to resolve the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict. Speaking at the UN Headquarters, Guterres stressed that Palestinian statehood is an inherent right, not something contingent upon other factors. He cited the prolonged impasse in negotiations and the repeated disregard for resolutions. Guterres emphasized the UN’s unwavering support for the two-state framework, which envisions two independent and sovereign democratic states—Israel and Palestine—living peacefully and securely side-by-side within internationally recognized borders defined by the pre-1967 lines, with Jerusalem serving as a shared capital, in alignment with international law, UN resolutions, and other relevant agreements. He cautioned that denying Palestinian statehood would play into the hands of extremist elements globally. In addition, Guterres appealed for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and unrestricted humanitarian assistance to the region, while strongly condemning the October 7th attacks by Hamas, the taking of hostages, the collective punishment of the Palestinian population, and any acts of ethnic cleansing.
