Secretary-General Calls Jerusalem ‘a Final Status Issue’ That Must Be Resolved through Direct Talks, Stressing There Is No Alternative to Two State Solution

Following is UN Secretary‑General António Guterres’ statement on the Middle East peace process today:

From day one as Secretary‑General of the United Nations, I have consistently spoken out against any unilateral measures that would jeopardize the prospect of peace for Israelis and Palestinians.

Jerusalem is a final status issue that must be resolved through direct negotiations between the two parties on the basis of the relevant Security Council and General Assembly resolutions, taking into account the legitimate concerns of both the Palestinian and the Israeli sides.

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.

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.

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. 

For my part as the United Nations 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.