New York Declaration
The United Nations held a very important conference recently to address the long-standing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The event resulted in the New York Declaration, a detailed plan aiming to establish an independent, demilitarised Palestinian state alongside Israel. This move reflects a strong international consensus to resolve the conflict through peaceful coexistence and regional integration.
Context of the 2025 UN Conference
The conference took place amid severe humanitarian crises in Gaza, including famine and restricted access to food. Israel’s policies were widely criticised, though Israel denied these allegations. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opposed the two-state approach, citing national security concerns. The United States also boycotted the meeting, calling it unproductive and ill-timed. Despite these absences, the conference proceeded with ministers and established eight high-level working groups to explore solutions.
The New York Declaration and Its Goals
The declaration outlines a phased plan to end the conflict and war in Gaza. It envisages a peaceful, demilitarised Palestinian state governed by the Palestinian Authority. The plan includes a transitional administrative committee post-ceasefire and calls for an international stabilisation mission under UN oversight. This mission would protect civilians, support security transfers, and monitor ceasefire compliance.
International Support and Political Positions
The declaration received backing from France, Saudi Arabia, the European Union, the Arab League, and 15 other nations. Saudi Arabia urged all 193 UN member states to endorse the plan before the 80th UN General Assembly session. France and the United Kingdom pledged to recognise the state of Palestine, signalling a shift in Western powers’ stance. The UK’s recognition is conditional on Israel agreeing to a ceasefire and peace talks within eight weeks.
Condemnation of Violence and Humanitarian Concerns
For the first time, Arab nations condemned Hamas’s attacks on Israeli civilians in October 2023, which killed about 1,200 people and took hostages. The declaration also condemned Israeli attacks on Gaza civilians and infrastructure, denoting the humanitarian catastrophe caused by the siege and blockade. The Gaza Health Ministry reports over 60,000 Palestinian deaths, though it does not distinguish between combatants and civilians.
Challenges and Future Prospects
The declaration criticises illegal unilateral actions threatening the creation of an independent Palestine, implicitly referring to Israeli settlements and policies. The success of the plan depends on cooperation from Israel and international actors. The conference marked a rare moment of consensus among diverse global players, yet opposition from key stakeholders remains hurdle.
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