Peace Summit: UN Chief Urges Two-State Solution for Lasting Peace in Middle East

UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated in Cairo on Saturday that the two-state solution is the only realistic foundation for genuine peace and stability in the Middle East. Today, more than ever, enormous efforts are needed to establish peace in the region and put an end to the bloodshed, said the head of the UN in a speech at the Peace Summit, noting that the two-state solution is the means to achieve this goal. “It is the right of Israelis to see their legitimate security needs met, just as it is the right of Palestinians to see their legitimate aspirations for an independent state realized, in accordance with United Nations resolutions, international law, and related conventions,” Guterres emphasized. In this context, the UN Secretary-General called for respect for international humanitarian law, including the Geneva Conventions, which aim to protect civilians and prevent the targeting of hospitals, schools, and UN facilities currently housing half a million people in Gaza. He further stressed that short-term objectives must be clear, reiterating his call for immediate, continuous, and unrestricted humanitarian aid for civilians trapped in Gaza, the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, and immediate, sincere efforts to put an end to violence. The Peace Summit proceedings began this morning in the new administrative capital near Cairo. HM King Mohammed VI is represented at this summit by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita. This summit involves the participation of 30 countries, the United Nations, and three regional organizations, in a joint effort to reduce escalation in Gaza, protect civilians, open security corridors, and allow the entry of humanitarian aid.