The UN’s top official for the Middle East, Sigrid Kaag, warned on Tuesday that the possibility of a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine is diminishing.
In a meeting at the UN Security Council, Kaag emphasized that while there is still a chance for peace, the window for achieving a two-state solution is closing. “This may be our last chance to reach the two-state solution,” she said.
Kaag pointed to several factors, including the ongoing conflict, the situation in Gaza, the expansion of Israeli settlements, and threats of annexation in the West Bank, as major obstacles preventing a lasting solution.
“Declarations are one thing, but we need action,” Kaag said. “The two-state solution is achievable geographically, but it is fading before our eyes. Only through political engagement and active diplomacy can this solution be realized.”
She also raised concerns about the expansion of Israeli military operations in the West Bank, which began on January 21, particularly in Jenin, Tubas, and Tulkarm.
On the Gaza ceasefire, Kaag called for full implementation of the three-phase agreement, urging both sides to respect their commitments and avoid the resumption of hostilities.
The US Ambassador to the UN, Dorothy Shea, reaffirmed her country’s commitment to ensuring the full implementation of the ceasefire agreement, while emphasizing the need to eliminate Hamas.
Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon echoed the sentiment, stating that Israel would continue its efforts to eliminate Hamas, ensuring security and the future of the state of Israel.
Palestinian Ambassador Riyad Mansour expressed concern about the lack of progress on the second phase of the ceasefire agreement, warning that the situation remains fragile.
The situation in Gaza and the broader Middle East remains tense, with high stakes for the future of peace in the region.
