New York:UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the need for tangible international support for a two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians, highlighting that rhetorical backing is insufficient amid the rapid advancement of Israeli settlements and policies in the occupied Palestinian territories.

According to Anadolu Agency, Guterres addressed a high-level ministerial event on the Two-State Solution and the Comprehensive Peace Plan for Gaza, held alongside the 81st UN General Assembly. He pointed out that although formal diplomatic approvals have grown, on-the-ground developments in the West Bank and Gaza are hindering progress.

Guterres expressed concern that the foundations for a viable Palestinian State are being dismantled due to aggressive Israeli actions and attacks in the West Bank. He labeled the expansion of Israeli occupation as a violation of international law and warned that projects planned for the E1 corridor in the West Bank could destroy the possibility of a contiguous Palestinian State.

He reiterated that lasting peace requires two states with recognized borders based on pre-1967 lines, and Jerusalem as the shared capital. He stressed that time is running out for this solution, which is vital for regional stability.

European Council President Antonio Costa, speaking at the event, noted that despite global consensus, progress has stalled. He referred to the initial optimism following the support of 142 nations for the New York Declaration on the Two-State Solution and UN Security Council Resolution 2803, but acknowledged that little has changed on the ground.

Costa urged for the immediate implementation of the international roadmap for Gaza, warning that the framework is under constant threat in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. He called for urgent collective action to ensure the establishment of an independent Palestinian state coexisting peacefully alongside Israel.