New york: Italy has once again expressed its unwavering support for a two-state solution in the Middle East, emphasizing that enduring peace can only be realized through the reunification of Gaza and the West Bank under a reformed and empowered Palestinian Authority.

According to Anadolu Agency, at a high-level United Nations international conference on Palestine, Maria Tripodi, Italy's undersecretary of state for foreign affairs, articulated Italy's stance. She stated that Italy views the two-state solution as the intersection of Israel's security needs and the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people. Tripodi emphasized the necessity of a Gaza Strip free of Hamas and its reunification with the West Bank under a reformed Palestinian Authority.

The conference, held at the UN headquarters in New York, saw the Italian delegation co-chairing the working group on security alongside Indonesia. This collaboration underscored the importance of security in any political process aimed at resolving the conflict.

Tripodi highlighted that addressing the security needs of both Israelis and Palestinians is essential for any political advancement and is fundamental to regional stability. She expressed gratitude to Saudi Arabia and France for convening the conference and acknowledged the contributions of various stakeholders, including UN member states, the European Union, the Arab League, civil society, and the Palestinian Authority.

Emphasizing the group's core principles, Tripodi stated that peace and security are interdependent, asserting that a sustainable security framework must be based on political agreements and negotiations rather than solely on military arrangements.

The Italian delegation also highlighted the EU's EUBAM Rafah mission during the ceasefire as an exemplary model of multilateral cooperation. Tripodi pointed out that any stabilization mission in Gaza and monitoring efforts in the West Bank require the consent of both parties, an invitation from the Palestinian Authority, and a Security Council resolution.

She further outlined priorities for the region, including an immediate ceasefire, ensuring humanitarian access, and building the capacity of Palestinian institutions and security forces.