Global Alliance reaffirms two-state solution, calls for unified Palestinian state

New York — The Global Alliance's co-chairs have reiterated their dedication to implementing a two-state solution for Palestine and Israel. This reaffirmation came at a ministerial gathering during the 81st UN General Assembly session, a year after the New York Declaration's adoption. The meeting brought together the Palestinian prime minister, representatives from over 100 nations and organizations, along with the Gaza Board of Peace's High Representative.

The co-chairs emphasized that the two-state solution is the only internationally recognized pathway ensuring the Palestinian people's right to self-determination and securing lasting security for Israel, ultimately fostering peace across the region. Despite recent threats, the alliance noted that international backing for the solution is at its strongest in years.

Expressing grave concern, the alliance denounced actions undermining the two-state solution, such as settlement expansion (especially the E1 plan), demolitions, forced displacement policies, annexation attempts, and alarming levels of settler violence. They called for an end to these measures, accountability for the violence, and preservation of Jerusalem's historical and legal status quo.

The alliance maintained its vision of "one Palestine, two states, a region at peace," stressing that Gaza and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, form a single Palestinian territory, and the occupation should cease. They reaffirmed the Palestinian people's right to self-determination and an independent, sovereign, democratic, contiguous, and viable state living in peace with Israel based on the 1967 borders, per international law and UN resolutions.

The alliance reiterated that resolving the Palestinian issue is crucial for regional peace and integration, aligning with the Arab Peace Initiative, the New York Declaration, and the Comprehensive Peace Plan. They stressed that Gaza cannot have an independent political future and that eventual reunification of the territory under a single legitimate Palestinian government is necessary.

The alliance provided support for the Gaza ceasefire, the disarmament of Hamas and other armed groups, and Israel's complete withdrawal, backed by credible and verifiable implementation. They called for transitional security arrangements, such as the International Stabilization Force and the training of a vetted Palestinian police force. Immediate delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, particularly via the UN and UNRWA, was also emphasized.

The alliance expressed worry over financial and institutional pressures on the Palestinian Authority, urging its financial sustainability through the release of all withheld revenues. They backed Palestinian-led reform and institutional renewal, including through elections, and urged all parties to enable future national elections. Donors were urged to provide direct assistance to support the Palestinian Authority.

The alliance rejected terrorism and incitement, clarifying that the conflict is political and regional, not religious. They emphasized that religious leaders and communities could promote coexistence, human dignity, and peace while countering extremism that exploits religion for terrorism, violence, exclusion, or domination. The alliance reaffirmed its commitment to international law, relevant UN resolutions, and the International Court of Justice's advisory opinion of July 19, 2024, and pledged continued support for national commitments within the New York Declaration framework.