UNGA Endorses Two-State Solution for Israel and Palestine
The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has passed a resolution reviving the two-state solution between Israel and Palestine, with 147 member states voting in favor. The resolution also calls for Hamas to end its rule in Gaza.
In a contentious vote, Israel and the United States were among the 10 members who opposed the resolution. "We cannot support this resolution because it does not provide a clear path forward for peace," said US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield. "The two-state solution is a distant memory, and we need a new approach."
The resolution, which was introduced by Jordan's King Abdullah II, aims to revive the 2003 Roadmap for Peace, which called for a two-state solution with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace. The resolution also emphasizes the importance of Palestinian statehood and an end to Israeli settlements.
"The two-state solution is not just a distant memory; it is a necessary reality," said King Abdullah II. "We must work together to create a future where Israelis and Palestinians can live in peace and security."
The UNGA's endorsement of the resolution comes as tensions between Israel and Palestine continue to escalate. The Gaza Strip has been under Hamas rule since 2007, and the Israeli government has maintained control over the West Bank.
"The two-state solution is not just a moral imperative; it is also a practical necessity," said UN Secretary-General António Guterres. "We must work together to create a future where Israelis and Palestinians can live in peace and security."
The resolution's passage marks a significant shift in international opinion on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The European Union, Canada, and other countries have expressed support for the two-state solution.
However, not all experts agree that the resolution will lead to lasting change. "This resolution is just a symbolic gesture," said Dr. Mouin Rabbani, a Palestinian expert on international law. "The real challenge lies in implementing the resolution on the ground."
As the situation continues to unfold, the international community remains divided on how to achieve peace between Israel and Palestine.
Background
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict dates back to 1948, when Israel declared independence. Since then, there have been numerous attempts at peace negotiations, including the 2003 Roadmap for Peace. However, no lasting agreement has been reached.
Additional Perspectives
Dr. Daniel Levy, a former Israeli diplomat and expert on international relations, said: "The two-state solution is not just about Israel and Palestine; it's also about the region as a whole. We need to think about how this resolution will impact the broader Middle East."
Dr. Ahmed Tibi, an Israeli Arab politician, added: "This resolution is a step in the right direction, but we need to see concrete action on the ground. The Israeli government must take steps to end its occupation of Palestinian lands and allow for Palestinian statehood."
Current Status
The UNGA's endorsement of the resolution marks a significant shift in international opinion on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. However, the road ahead remains uncertain.
As the situation continues to unfold, the international community will be watching closely to see how Israel and Palestine respond to the resolution. Will this mark a turning point towards peace, or will it remain just another symbolic gesture? Only time will tell.
*Reporting by Aljazeera.*