International Conference to Advance Two-State Solution to Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Monday that France will co-host an international conference in the coming months with Saudi Arabia, aimed at advancing a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The conference will be prepared in close coordination with regional partners, including Cairo.
Macron emphasized the need for a political solution to ensure long-term stability in the region. "We will act, looking towards an international conference for the two-state solution, which France will co-host with Saudi Arabia," he said in a press conference with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.
The French President also condemned the resumption of Israeli strikes on Gaza, which he described as a dramatic setback for the civilian population, the hostages, their families, and the entire region. He called for an immediate return to the ceasefire and the release of all hostages still held by Hamas in Gaza.
Macron reiterated his support for the reconstruction plan for Gaza endorsed by the Arab League on March 4, and praised Egypt for its crucial work on this plan, which offers a realistic path to the reconstruction of Gaza and must also open the way to new Palestinian governance in the enclave led by the Palestinian Authority.
Sisi, for his part, reiterated his rejection of Palestinian displacement from their land. "We discussed the tragic situation in Gaza and stressed the urgent need to return to a ceasefire, to allow for the immediate entry of humanitarian aid, and to ensure the release of hostages," he said.
The Egyptian leader also reviewed with Macron an Arab plan for Gaza reconstruction and agreed to coordinate joint efforts regarding a Gaza reconstruction conference to be hosted by Egypt as soon as hostilities in Gaza cease.
Background and Context
The Israeli army has escalated its attacks on the Palestinian territory, where more than 1,300 people have been killed and 3,400 others injured in airstrikes since March 18, despite a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement. More than 50,700 Palestinians have been killed in the enclave in a brutal Israeli onslaught since October 2023, most of them women and children.
The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants last November for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its war on the enclave.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the announcement of an international conference to advance a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a significant step towards resolving the long-standing conflict. The conference will provide an opportunity for regional and international stakeholders to come together and work towards a peaceful and sustainable solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the purpose of the international conference?
A: The purpose of the conference is to advance a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Q: Who will co-host the conference?
A: France and Saudi Arabia will co-host the conference.
Q: What is the current situation in Gaza?
A: The Israeli army has escalated its attacks on the Palestinian territory, resulting in the deaths of over 1,300 people and injuries to over 3,400 others since March 18.
Q: What is the International Criminal Court’s stance on the conflict?
A: The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.
Q: What is the current status of the peace talks?
A: The peace talks have been stalled for some time, and there is no clear indication of when they will resume.