13 hours ago
Middle East ‘On Edge' as International Coalition Reaffirms Support for Palestine Peace Plan
The co-chairs of the international conference on peacefully resolving the Palestinian issue and advancing the two-state solution — led by Saudi Arabia and France — expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions in the Middle East, warning that the region is facing a "fragile and dangerous" moment.
The statement comes amid growing fears of a broader conflict, particularly following the recent intensification of hostilities between Israel and Iran.
The co-chairs, speaking on behalf of several international and regional partners, emphasized the urgent need to restore calm and push forward with diplomatic efforts. They also confirmed that the recent developments have forced the postponement of the high-level United Nations conference focused on the implementation of the two-state solution.
Despite the delay, the co-chairs reaffirmed their full commitment to the goals of the initiative. They noted that the working group leaders will soon announce new dates for upcoming roundtable discussions, which aim to transform the contributions of various countries into concrete and coordinated international commitments that support the two-state solution.
'This moment demands that we double down on our efforts to uphold international law, respect the sovereignty of all nations, and promote peace, freedom, and dignity for everyone in the region,' the statement read, referencing the ongoing Israeli strikes on Iran since last Friday.
The joint leadership also reiterated its unwavering support for all efforts to end the war in Gaza and to achieve a just and lasting resolution to the Palestinian issue through the two-state framework — a path they believe is essential for ensuring long-term security and stability in the region.
The statement was signed by the co-chairs, Saudi Arabia and France, along with the heads of working groups representing a wide coalition that includes Brazil, Canada, Egypt, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Mexico, Norway, Qatar, Senegal, Spain, Turkey, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and the Arab League.
This international conference serves as a platform for coordinated actions aimed at ending the occupation and recognizing an independent Palestinian state, based on international law, relevant UN resolutions, the Arab Peace Initiative, and the joint Peace Day Effort.