EU Leaders Unite Behind Two-State Solution for Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

EU Members Reaffirm Commitment to Two-State Solution STRASBOURG, France - The European Union's 27 member states have reaffirmed their commitment to a two-state solution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This stance was reiterated by European Council President Antonio Costa during a recent meeting in Strasbourg. According to sources close to the negotiations, all EU members are committed to upholding this position, which has been a cornerstone of international efforts to resolve the longstanding dispute. "We remain steadfast in our support for a two-state solution," Costa said, emphasizing that this goal is essential for achieving lasting peace and stability in the region. The European Union's commitment to a two-state solution dates back to 2003, when the EU's Council of Ministers first endorsed this approach. Since then, the EU has consistently reaffirmed its support for this position, despite ongoing challenges and setbacks in the peace process. In recent years, the EU has taken steps to strengthen its engagement with the Palestinian Authority, including providing financial assistance and technical support for economic development and governance reforms. However, the Israeli government's continued expansion of settlements in the West Bank has raised concerns about the viability of a two-state solution. Despite these challenges, Costa expressed optimism that progress can be made through sustained diplomatic efforts. "We believe that a negotiated two-state solution is still possible," he said, emphasizing the need for both parties to engage in good-faith negotiations and make concessions on key issues such as borders, security, and Jerusalem's status. The EU's commitment to a two-state solution has implications beyond the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It reflects the bloc's broader efforts to promote peace, stability, and human rights around the world. As Costa noted, "A two-state solution is not just about Israel and Palestine - it's about the future of our region and the values we hold dear." The European Union's next steps on this issue are expected to be outlined in a forthcoming policy paper, which will outline the bloc's strategy for promoting a two-state solution. In the meantime, EU member states will continue to work together to support Palestinian economic development and governance reforms, as well as engage with Israeli officials to encourage progress towards a negotiated settlement. As the international community continues to grapple with the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the European Union's commitment to a two-state solution serves as a beacon of hope for a lasting peace. *Reporting by Aljazeera.*