Reacting to President Donald Trump’s recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, the United Nations has said there is no alternative to the two-state solution and that the world body would strive for the two Middle Eastern parties to resume negotiations towards that end.
The Arab capitals and Palestinians have opposed the move, arguing it would not only hurt peace prospects but also fuel violence.
Speaking at the UN Headquarters in New York, Secretary-General António Guterres stressed that there is no alternative to the two-state solution and that Jerusalem is an issue that must be resolved through direct negotiations between the parties.
“In this moment of great anxiety, I want to make it clear: there is no alternative to the two-state solution. There is no Plan B,” said Mr. Guterres said.
Guterres noted that it is only by realizing the vision of two states “living side-by-side in peace, security and mutual recognition, with Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and Palestine, and all final status issues resolved permanently through negotiations,” that the legitimate aspirations of both peoples will be achieved.
“I understand the deep attachment that Jerusalem holds in the hearts of so many people. It has been so for centuries and it will always be,” he added, referring to the a wave of concerns expressed by the Middle Eastern and European leaders over repercussions of the move.
He also noted that since he took up his post as UN Secretary-General, he has consistently spoken out against any unilateral measures that would jeopardize the prospect of peace for Israelis and Palestinians.
“For my part as the UN Secretary-General, I will do everything in my power to support the Israeli and Palestinian leaders to return to meaningful negotiations and to realize this vision of a lasting peace for both people,” he stated.
