UN Flags Israeli Knesset's Anti-Palestinian State Motion As Peace Hindrance

Secretary-General António Guterres expressed disappointment over the Israeli Knesset's decision to oppose the creation of a Palestinian State west of the Jordan River. In a statement, Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General, conveyed Guterres' stance.

Guterres has consistently advocated for ending the occupation and negotiating a two-State solution. He envisions Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous, viable, and sovereign Palestinian State coexisting peacefully within secure and recognised borders based on 1967 lines. Jerusalem would serve as the capital of both States.

"As he (Guterres) has said many times, he believes that ending the occupation and negotiating a two-State solution where Israel and an independent democratic, contiguous, viable and sovereign Palestinian State living side by side in peace and security within secure and recognized borders based on 1967 lines, with Jerusalem as the capital of both States, is the only viable path to a sustainable peace for the people of Israel and for the people of Palestine," stated Dujarric.

The motion passed by the Knesset is seen as inconsistent with UN resolutions, international law, and prior agreements. Guterres urges Israelis and all parties involved to refrain from actions that distance them from achieving a two-State solution.

"So, the motion passed is for us clearly inconsistent with the UN resolutions, international law and prior agreements. And he once again calls on the Israelis and all sides, frankly, [not] to do anything that takes us further away from the two-State solution," added Dujarric.

Impact on West Bank Geography

Guterres also highlighted how Israeli administrative and legal measures are steadily changing the geography of the occupied West Bank. He briefed the UN Security Council on two military orders issued at May's end that transferred powers to a civilian deputy in Israel’s Civil Administration.

"This move is another significant advance in the ongoing transfer of authority over many aspects of daily life in the occupied West Bank," he said. "If left unaddressed, these measures risk causing irreparable damage...we must change course. All settlement activity must cease immediately. Israeli settlements are a flagrant violation of international law and a key obstacle to peace."

Settlement Expansion Concerns

The seizure of large land parcels in strategic areas and changes to planning, land management, and governance are expected to significantly accelerate settlement expansion. Guterres emphasised that these activities must stop immediately as they violate international law.

"The seizure of large land parcels in strategic areas and changes to planning, land management and governance are expected to significantly accelerate settlement expansion," he added.

The Secretary-General's statements underscore his commitment to achieving lasting peace through adherence to international laws and agreements. The focus remains on ensuring both Israelis and Palestinians can coexist peacefully within recognised borders.

With inputs from WAM